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     In DNTH 416, Administration Leadership and Professional Development, we learned all about ethics, advocacy, legislation, and legalities. Specifically in dental hygiene we learned the laws governing our scope of practice. We also learned the code of ethics and the ethical decision making process. Furthermore, it included learning about legal issues in the profession, as well as inappropriate workplace behavior. I enjoyed this course because it gave an overview of the do’s and don'ts and great types to be a well-rounded dental hygienist. 

     One important subject we learned within this course is advocacy within legislation. We learned the process of how a bill becomes a law, then we wrote to our representative on a bill that was currently in the house that we felt strongly about. I chose to write mine on how dentists should be able to give botox injections not only therapeutically, but cosmetically as well. I have attached this letter below. Furthermore, we were also able to take a trip up to Richmond, Virginia for Rally Day, hosted by Virginia Dental Hygienists' Association. So we all went up to Richmond and spoke with representatives and senators about our education level and gaining reciprocity in Virginia for dental hygiene licenses. Knowing the laws and being active with organizations and advocacy events such as this, is how the scope of practice will expand. Being a leader is about using your voice for the greater good. 

     One skill that I have learned from this course that employers seek is the ability to verbally communicate with persons inside and outside the organization. I had to reach out to my senator about a bill that was passed, but I also learned how to communicate within my organization as well. Not only did we learn how to communicate with our legislators, but how to communicate with our bosses in a professional environment, as well as with potential employers in an interview. Another skill I learned that employers are seeking is the ability to influence others. This skill also ties back to communicating and lobbying for bills to be passed, but I have also learned how to influence my patients in the right ways. As a future dental hygienist I have to educate people on oral health care, and influence them to take care of theirs. Preventative care makes up most of my job as a future dental hygienist and being able to effectively communicate and properly influence my patients will determine how successful I am. 

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