Alumni Stories - Kim Tucker

Upon completing her program, Kim worked as a dental hygienist for 27 years, applying the skills she learned at York Tech directly to her work in the dental field. Even after leaving dental hygiene to explore new passions in ministry, Kim still utilizes the same skill set she gained from York Tech, just in a different context. Here’s what Kim has to say when asked: "What did York Tech teach you?"

“For starters, how to talk to people! At the time we had to find our own patients.  We would go to the mall, neighborhoods, wherever we had to and ask people if they wanted to get their teeth cleaned. If you wanted to survive in the program, you had to get a patient, so we worked hard to find them.” 

In every field, effective communication is crucial. Because of her time at York Tech, Kim excels in this area and performs her job with great skill. She remains steadfast in acknowledging that her time at York Tech was greatly enhanced by the support and guidance of her instructors:  

“Once I began the program, I loved it. But I have to say, one thing that made the program so interesting was the passion of the instructors, especially Kathy Peter.  Her passion for the field was evident and it came across in her teaching. Under her guidance, I quickly believed I had chosen a field that had incredible value."

Instructors have the power to shape one’s college experience, and we take pride in knowing that our students are always in good hands with the faculty and staff at our college. On a similar note, here are Kim’s thoughts on what makes York Tech a great school:  

“At the time I was here, it was the instructors. I believe it is like that with anything though, a business, college, hospital, whatever, is only as good as the people working there. Our instructors pushed us and instilled a work ethic. As far as YTC, I’m grateful there was a college that offered a program I could complete in less than four years, graduate without any student loan debt, and I started working as soon as I graduated.” 

Kim was thoughtful and smart in her decision to attend York Tech. While her hard work and dedication have been key to her success, she emphasizes that the influence and impact of exceptional instructors are equally important. Our instructors are our foundation and they play a vital role in shaping the future of each new generation of students. Their contributions are a major reason why the York Tech legacy remains so strong.