Applying For Dental School

Choosing dentistry as a career can come with a lot of stress because you are not only facing the main obstacle which is the application process, but you are also dealing with the competition of other applicants. The truth is that the application process can be very stressful, but in order to succeed, you have to keep that stress in perspective. Using stress as a motivational tool rather than allowing it to ruin your efforts, can be a way to succeed.

Most dental schools in the country require a very strong academic record. When you decide to pursue dental school, you have to make a plan to ensure that you can complete the required prerequisite classes and to bring up your GPA as much as needed. Also preparing for the DAT while trying to keep your academic record strong. Participating in extracurriculars you are genuinely interested in not only gives you a break from all the predental academics, but it also shows the admissions committees that you’re a well rounded person. Balancing volunteering, shadowing, doing research, work experience, and other activities shows your dedication to your future career as a dentist, it also lets your unique interests and individuality shine. Asking the appropriate people to write you letters of recommendation is another key factor. Going to office hours and making connections with the professors is the key to having great recommendation letters.

In conclusion, dentistry is a challenging and rewarding field. Getting into a dental program has a complex process. To prepare for dental school, you have to take science courses at your university, and shadow dentists to become a perfect candidate. The competition to gain a spot in the program is tough. However, admission to dental school is not impossible. It just takes lots of planning, organization, engagement, and leadership (the same things needed to be a successful dentist).

Written by: Ghazaleh Khodaparast