Thursday Talks: Tonka Barrett-McBurrows

Tonka Barrett-McBurrows from the Department of Pediatric Dentistry spoke to us about her role and time at RSDM.  

Tell us a bit about yourself and what you do at RSDM. 

I am the senior management administrative assistant for the Department of Pediatric Dentistry. I'm like the right-hand to the department chair. So, we have pediatric dentistry, but under that umbrella, there's a special needs clinic and community health. It's a busy department. I supervise a group of talented front-desk staff and dental assistants. Monday through Friday, we see tons of patients, and we have two separate waiting areas for pediatric dentistry and special care, respectively. 

How long have you been here, and why did you decide to come to RSDM?  

It'll be 10 years in November. It's funny, it's full circle. I used to work for Rutgers. Years ago, I was in the Department of Biochemistry at the medical school. And then a job opportunity came. I left and was with that job for just under 10 years, and unfortunately, I got laid off. I started my search again, and then I said, “Well, you know what, let me apply back to Rutgers, it's a good place to go.” If I want to further my education, I can do that as well. So, I just started applying and ended up here and at the dental school. 

What do you like the most about RSDM?  

I like Rutgers because I like the many opportunities that are available, not only as an employee but as possibly becoming a potential graduate student who is contemplating going back to school. But I guess the most fun part of it is pediatrics. When I have the kids come in, and when I see it from the perspective of being a mom, they're so honest, and it's so funny. And I don't just sit in the office. I go out to the clinic and interact with them, especially when we have Halloween, or the Give Kids a Smile events. Some D3s or D4s will also volunteer, and they'll dress up in costumes. I'm not a dentist, but just hearing and learning things from the postgraduates and the dental assistants, who are there day in and day out, make it interesting. 

Any favorite memories of the students, parents, patients, or faculty? 

Yes, there's a memory with a patient, I don't recall the name. But I remember going to the front desk for some reason. And I was talking to the mom and the girl just came up to me and gave me these two pieces of art that she made in school that I now keep on my desk. Most kids are apprehensive about coming to the dentist because they're afraid, and they'll always remember what they experienced here. That’s the reason for Give Kids a Smile, to show them it can be a fun experience. 

What do you enjoy doing outside school? 

I enjoy spending time with my son and our dog. We will go hiking and cycling. We'll visit museums and go to the dog beach in the summer. I'm also a harpist, and playing is so therapeutic for me. I enjoy learning new pieces of music and playing with others.