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Spotlights
Dr. Julio Caceres
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Enjoy the
detailed story behind our homepage spotlight!
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How the ESL
program at SAC gave a student back his career
Why did you come to Santa Ana College?
In 2000, my family and I fled to the United States from
Colombia, South America, where I had a dental practice. I was
active in a labor union that works to protect its members’
rights and designs dental care programs for the government’s
social security system. I am sure that it may be hard for people
who live here to comprehend that, even today, there are
countries like Colombia where it can be dangerous to speak
freely and express opinions as openly as we do in the U.S. My
life was in danger from people who did not like what I was
saying.
And what happened when you got to the United States?
My family and I were safe, but we had to start over. I spoke no
English and I had to pass four examinations in English to get my
license to practice dentistry.
Fortunately, I had a friend who was attending classes at the
Adult Education Center in Orange. I went with him to the Center
where I met a counselor who referred me to the ESL (English as a
Second Language) program at Santa Ana College.
How quickly did you learn English?
It was hard, of course, but it took me about two years. I was
working as a parking valet during the day and attending classes
four evenings a week, but I was very motivated and I had very
good teachers. My English was good enough to pass my dental
examinations in June 2002, and I received my license in August.
Even today when I have to write in English I remember one
instructor who gave us so many writing assignments. But they
were practical lessons that would help me not only pass the
examination, but also communicate with patients.
And what did you do after you got your license?
I worked for several dental franchises until 2006, when I opened
my own practice in Santa Ana.
What is it like practicing dentistry in Santa Ana?
It is very rewarding, because I am often able to help people who
speak little or no English. Giving patients basic cleaning is
one of the most important services I provide, especially for
children and pregnant women. In fact, it’s so important that
sometimes I give patients dental hygiene care before insurance
companies have processed the paperwork and approved the
procedure.
And as a member of the California Dental Association, the
American Dental Association and the Orange County Dental
Society, I stay up-to-date on the latest developments in dental
care. I particularly appreciate the wonderful opportunities I
have living here where I can attend seminars and lectures given
by the most famous scientists and leaders in my field. It’s hard
to believe that I received my dental degree in Colombia 20 years
ago!
What do you to do for fun?
Of course, my family is my top priority, so I spend as much time
as possible with my wife, my 14-year-old son, and my daughter,
who is 17 and beginning to think about what she wants to study
in college. She’s very lucky that she will get her higher
education in this country, because she will be able to explore a
variety of careers and even change her course of study, if she
wishes. That’s not the case in South America, where you have to
pick one field and stick with it.
I also love fine art, especially sculpting and painting. And
here in Santa Ana, of course, soccer is very popular and I kick
the ball around in several soccer leagues.
And what words of advice do you have for those who also may
be starting a new life in this country?
Persevere, no matter how hard it is, or how long it takes. Santa
Ana College gave me the tools I needed to succeed, and it can do
the same for you. Southern California is a wonderful place to
live and work; believe me, it’s worth the effort!
Learn more about free ESL classes offered by Santa Ana College’s
School of Continuing Education. |
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