I am an aspiring general dentist or other medical professional. Does where I attend college have an impact on my chances of attending graduate schools or beginning my career?
I'm asking because I am currently deciding between two schools and one has much better medical programs but is far more expensive. #medicine
6 answers
Marina Leite Pimentel
Marina’s Answer
Dear Julian, first keep in mind your main motivation to work in healthcare, being a dentist or a doctor. Second, the name of your institution may play a role, but the professional you become is more important in your career. My advice is, apart from budget considerations, to speak with the students and professionals from the colleges you are considering, before making a decision.
Whitney G.’s Answer
Hello! It plays a pretty small role. There are required science courses that you need to have completed before applying to dental school. So as long as you have met those requirements you should have no issues. Go to a college or university that will give you the most support for your career goals, but won't break the bank!
Whitney G. recommends the following next steps:
Richard’s Answer
Pick a school that fits your personality in a location where you won't mind devoting a majority of your hours to studying. You will need to get good grades in college in order to apply for medical school. At the medical school I attended, the average GPA is reported to be 3.85, so even one or two B's can hurt your chances of acceptance.
Some schools favor graduates from elite colleges, but it's your performance while in college that matters most to admission committees
Adit’s Answer
Ruben’s Answer
DRBRUCE’s Answer
It does have some impact, but it will not be the majority factor in an institution selecting you for graduate school. Drive, level of desire to attend a specific graduate school, community service, extra~curricular activities, and hobbies also play a part in the selection process. Personality and mindset will be a major factor.