From Setback to Success: A Journey of Resilience in the Dental Assisting Program
At 30, Holly Schneider’s life took an unexpected turn. A serious health condition forced her to undergo a hysterectomy, a physically and emotionally draining experience that put her dreams on hold. Holly was in the middle of her journey in Chaffey College’s Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) program, taking online courses due to the COVID-19 shutdown, with no idea what the future held.
Questioning whether she could return to school while recovering, raising a young child, and enduring not just one, but three more surgeries in the years that followed. Each procedure tested her limits, making the road back to her education seem impossible. The idea of giving up crossed her mind more times.
But something inside her refused to quit.
“We all had our struggles, but we pushed through together. Seeing others persevere made me believe I could do it too.”
She has a child who looked up to her, and she wanted to show him that setbacks don’t define us—how we rise from them does. So, step by step, she fought her way back. Late nights were spent studying between diaper changes, and exhaustion became her constant companion. There were moments when the physical pain felt unbearable, but she kept reminding herself why she had started this journey
“The instructors at Chaffey never let me feel alone,” “They encouraged me to keep going, even when I doubted myself.” Without the support of faculty who developed standalone courses through grant funding from the High Road Training Partnership (HRTP), I wouldn’t be where I am today. These courses provided students with the opportunity to earn a certificate of completion for each course they finished, even if they were unable to complete the entire program. This flexibility allowed me to continue progressing toward my goals despite the challenges I faced.”
With the unwavering support of professors, classmates, and family, Holly rebuilt her strength and found new ways to adapt. She learned that success isn’t just reaching the finish line—it’s in every small victory along the way. More importantly, she discovered the power of perseverance, self-compassion, and self-belief.
Holly shared, “Now, as I prepare to complete my RDA program, I reflect on everything I have overcome with a deep sense of pride. Every challenge shaped me into the strong, determined individual I am today.”
To anyone facing obstacles that seem insurmountable, know this: You are stronger than you think.
Holly didn’t just return to the program—She reclaimed her future. She did it for her child. She did it for herself. She did it for the dream she refused to let go.