By Elizabeth Deegan, First-Year Dental Hygiene Clinical Coordinator
I am proud to identify as a first-generation college student.
I was the first person in my family to complete a bachelor’s degree, with the intention of moving directly into my master’s program. Unfortunately, life had another plan. After a sideline, I was fortunate to begin working in the Dental Hygiene program as an adjunct, where my love of teaching blossomed under the guidance of an exceptional program director.
Inspired by that experience, I applied to the MPH program and was on my way to greater success, with both personal and professional growth. Completing my master’s degree at Goodwin was truly a lifelong dream come true. That milestone not only fulfilled a personal goal but also opened the door for me to give back in a meaningful way.
Today, I have the privilege of teaching dental hygiene — a profession I am deeply passionate about. I am grateful every day that my journey allows me to support and inspire students as they discover their own paths, just as I once did.
Goodwin University is a nonprofit institution of higher education and is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), formerly known as the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). Goodwin University was founded in 1999, with the goal of serving a diverse student population with career-focused degree programs that lead to strong employment outcomes.