What should I do to increase my chances of getting into a dental program?
I am a recent graduate with a biology major. Although proud of my success, I've graduated with a 2.60 GPA, but I've held a lab job, commuted from home, and participated on the school sports team for the past 4 years. I went to a competitive university and find it sad because compared to my peers I was usually AVERAGE on the curved grading scale, this was usually a C+ letter grade. I wanted to apply for dental school but shortly after my first C, I realized the dream was far out of my reach. 3 years later, I've realized that I either have to change my career of choice or take an alternative route. To start, I'm actually going to pick up extra classes at my university this upcoming school year. The following year, I will be retaking a few classes I didn't do very well in, although they won't contribute to improving my UC GPA, I'm hoping they will still be taken into consideration by dental programs. The 3rd gap year, I will take to finally apply to several school near and far, small and large. On top of all of this, I will be looking for a job as a dental assistant to gain experience and also volunteer and maybe do a medical trip. I want to know if there are any other ways to improve my chances at entering a dental program. At this point, my far off reach goal would be a DDS program and plan B would be a dental hygienist. Please let me know if I should still even try applying, and if so any other ideas of improving my application and how. #dentistry #dental-hygienist #dental-school
3 answers
Ngozi’s Answer
I met someone in admissions concerning the issue of low GPA. I was advised to do a masters and improve my GPA. Then mention in my personal statement (or somewhere in the application) how I learnt from my mistakes and I'm better. Also the other options you stated would also boost your chances. Good luck!!!!
Tiffany’s Answer
You could do a post bac program for dental school. Below is the link. If you complete one of these programs with good standing then you will greatly increase your chances of getting into dental school.
http://www.adea.org/GoDental/Application_Prep/Preparing_for_Dental_School/Postbaccalaureate_Programs.aspx#sthash.vdL6NrID.dpbs
Hope that helps
Thank you so much for the info! I will definitely look into post bad programs!
Andrea
Yes please look into, I know many people who have done these programs for med school and dental school and they have gotten in after completing the programs. Don't give up on your dream of becoming a dentist.
Tiffany Cone
Maddie’s Answer
I think it is great that you are looking to take steps to achieve your dream of entering a dental program. All of the options you mentioned are great ways to improve. Retaking classes and gaining work experience can both show that you are dedicated to succeeding in your chosen field. I might also suggest reaching out to admissions representatives or advisors within the programs you are interested in. Can you sit down with them, or communicate over the phone, about what they may be looking for in a candidate? Doing informational interviews can help to establish a connection and can also provide you with more information on how to focus your current efforts. I might also suggest networking with local, national, and even global dental associations. For example, the American Dental Association may have resources available to learn more about graduate programs and ways to connect with others in the industry.
I hope this helps! Wishing you all the best in your endeavors. If there is anything else you need don't hesitate to reach out!
Have a great day!
Sincerely,
Madeline
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