How Hasan used Ohio State’s online RDH to BS, Dental Hygiene program to launch his academic career

For Hasan Al-Safi, RDH, pursuing a Bachelor of Science, Dental Hygiene at The Ohio State University was more than a degree—it was a stepping stone toward a future in academia and dentistry. A 2025 graduate of the Ohio State’s online RDH to BS completion program, Hasan shares how the experience shaped his career path, opened professional doors, and connected him to a strong network of mentors and peers. 

Choosing Ohio State: Reputation, flexibility, and a path to dental school

Hasan’s journey began with a passion for teaching, which he discovered during his time in the traditional dental hygiene program at Columbus State Community College.  

“My main motivation to pursue the RDH to BS program was to transition into the academic side of dental hygiene,” he says. “I saw the program as an opportunity to open the door to teaching clinical and possibly didactic dental hygiene courses in the future.” 

When it came time to choose where to earn his online dental hygiene bachelor’s degree, Ohio State stood out for its reputation and comprehensive support. “Ohio State’s reputation precedes it,” Hasan explains. “It meant I would get a quality education, valuable connections in the dental field, and the resources to succeed. The Ohio State University’s College of Dentistry is the only dental school in Ohio with a dental hygiene program, and since I plan on attending dental school at Ohio State, it was the perfect fit.”  

Supportive faculty, practical experience, and immediate impact

Throughout the program, faculty support played a critical role in Hasan’s success. He credits Denise Messina, Clinical Assistant Professor, BSDH, MDH as one of the most influential people in his journey.  

“Early on, I shared my aspirations of becoming a dentist with Mrs. Messina, and she became an incredibly valuable resource,” he shares. “She introduced me to others in the field, connected me with dental students who were formerly hygienists, and even wrote a recommendation letter for my dental school application. I wouldn’t be where I am today without her.” 

The impact of the RDH to BS completion program became immediately clear during Hasan’s final year, when he completed his capstone as a teaching assistant. He was able to apply his RDH-BS coursework from Ohio State in a real academic setting at Columbus State Community College, helping teach dental materials labs, local anesthesia, and clinical courses.  

“I also presented lectures on advanced instrumentation and dental whitening,” Hasan says. “After graduation, I was hired as an adjunct clinical instructor at Columbus State Community College. I’ve been working there since the summer, and I feel well prepared for the role thanks to what I learned at Ohio State.” 

Online connections, career growth, and words of advice 

While fully online, the Ohio State Online dental hygiene program is designed to foster community and connection. Hasan found that Zoom meetings, discussion boards, and collaborative class projects helped him stay engaged.  

“Faculty were always accessible and supportive,” he says. “Professor Messina even met with me in person during one of her courses and invited me to Ohio State’s dental hygiene networking events. Through those events, I met current students, alumni, local dentists, and agencies. I even ended up working with one of my classmates in a clinical setting.” 

Reflecting on how far he’s come, Hasan believes the RDH to BS completion program gave him the tools to grow both personally and professionally.  

“It allowed me to transition into academia, build relationships with faculty and peers, and provide higher-quality care to my patients. It opened so many doors.” 

For licensed dental hygienists considering the next step, Hasan offers clear advice: 

“Do it. This program changed my life. A degree from Ohio State opens many doors that would have been closed otherwise. Whether you’re interested in becoming an EFDA, working in public health, or pursuing dental school like me, this program provides the foundation. Plus, the flexibility of being online made it possible for me to work full-time while succeeding academically.”

If you’re a licensed dental hygienist ready to advance your career, Ohio State’s online RDH to Bachelor of Science program offers the flexibility, support, and academic excellence to help you reach your goals. 

Take the next step in your dental hygiene career 

Hasan’s journey is just one example of how Ohio State’s online RDH to BS completion program empowers licensed dental hygienists to grow in clinical practice, public health, education, and beyond. Whether you’re pursing advanced roles or preparing for academia, this program is designed to fit your schedule and support your ambitions.  

Connect with an advisor or start your application today to take the next step.