4 interviews but not the ones I want....

[LAVGUY]

---

Members don't see this ad.

AA 19
TS 20
PAT 21
OChem 17 (Ran out of time....checked C for last 6)
Biology 21
GChem 22
QR 17 (Also ran out of clock.... checked C for last 5)
RC 20

G.P.A. 3.35
Science G.P.A 3.6 🙂)

Hi guys, I am new to the SDN and wish I knew about this amazing community....well around 4 months ago. I would like to share some things about myself so you can get to know my personality a little better before I give a full breakdown, ask a bunch of questions and give some really good advice.:
-I am a resident of Florida.
-I am 23 years of age
-Graduated in May of 2015
-I Foster Cats and Dogs and help them get adopted
-I shadowed a public health dentist and felt that I was needed in that field.

I have gotten 4 interviews to schools that are ok. I have not gotten an Interview to the University of Florida which is my main concern. I really have been shooting to go here since I was a young lad. I was wondering if you guys think it is too late to start studying again and take the DAT before this session of admissions is over. That means I would take it around November 30th. I have not told Dental schools I plan on re taking it yet. I really thought a 19 was good enough, but turns out it really is not at all.

Word to the Wise, if you feel like your score is not good enough, just start studying again right as you walk out of your test and take it again 3 months later LIKE I SHOULD HAVE and I would be set right now.

 

[MRZ8]

You're so lucky to have 4 interviews right now. I only have 1 out of 15. You seem set on retaking the DAT to get into UF, so if that's your case, you should call UF to confirm that it's not too late to retake and have UF consider your second DAT scores. Personally, I would stay patient and wait it out. You are in-state after all.

 

[Stalkyyy]

You have 4 interviews.....be happy yo

 

[LAVGUY]

Yes, I do feel fortunate enough to get interviews, maybe I'm being a little hard on myself. I just feel I would fit best at UF. I will keep you guys updated on what happens December 1st.

 

[Blackhorse90]

 

[Ollivander]

My goal with my reply is not to insult or offend you, but rather to speak my mind. You're too entitled. You're expecting to get into the top dental school in the state of Florida with an average overall GPA, and average DAT scores. That's not how it works. Florida had 536 IN-STATE applicants apply last year and only 87 of those were accepted. The average AA was 20 for UF, sGPA of 3.57, and an oGPA of 3.65. That's not to mention 8 of their matriculating students held masters degrees with an average sGPA of 3.81 and an oGPA of 3.80. If I had your stats (which mine hover around that area aside from volunteering which I have 2,000+, and my sGPA is worse) and was given four interviews I would pray to God of how thankful I was for those four interviews. You're honestly blessed that you received any, because you are in the category of a borderline candidate. Sure there are some sub 3.0 students that come on here once in a blue moon claiming they were accepted, but most of the time it's their fourth time applying or some comeback story of that extent.

Here's my advice. You need to sit down and soul search whether you care more about becoming a dentist or going to Florida. I had to make that decision long ago of whether I cared more about being at Auburn or becoming a dentist. I left Auburn, a place I loved, because I was more passionate about dentistry. You need to reevaluate your priorities and ask yourself what you truly want, because if you turn down those interviews and possible acceptances to take another shot at Florida, it's very likely you will not get into Florida, nor elsewhere the second time around. Good luck and I wish you the best in whatever you decide.

 

[el_duderino]

It's silly to think anything you can do in a couple of days is going to make up for a well below average body of work amassed during your entire undergrad career (3.3 GPA vs 3.65 average for your target school).

Be happy with the interviews you got.

 

[pulltheleverkronk]

I wouldn't call him entitled. I think he has high expectations for himself. There's probably something else unique about him or his application that got him those four interviews. It's also not even December... Florida hasn't given out all their invites, I'm sure. If you don't get in and are dead-set on going, just reapply. Personally, I'd just go to one of the schools I interviewed at instead of wasting the money reapplying though.

Side note: Bashing people because you feel they should be less disappointed relative to how you feel doesn't make for a good discussion. Why shouldn't he expect to get in somewhere great? Lowering one's expectations for their future based on what other people say is a slippery slope.

 

[Ollivander]

I wouldn't call him entitled. I think he has high expectations for himself. There's probably something else unique about him or his application that got him those four interviews. It's also not even December... Florida hasn't given out all their invites, I'm sure. If you don't get in and are dead-set on going, just reapply. Personally, I'd just go to one of the schools I interviewed at instead of wasting the money reapplying though.

Side note: Bashing people because you feel they should be less disappointed relative to how you feel doesn't make for a good discussion. Why shouldn't he expect to get in somewhere great? Lowering one's expectations for their future based on what other people say is a slippery slope.

Nobody is telling him to lower his expectations for his future, nor was I bashing him. I specifically said I wasn't meaning to offend the guy. The fact remains that just because dentist A graduates from Penn and dentist B graduates from Roseman, that doesn't mean dentist A will be more successful than dentist B. It ultimately does not matter what school you went to upon graduation other than some inner self-satisfaction you may get out of it. The only material difference is cost and potential debt. From looking at it from a business perspective, he's better off taking an acceptance from one of the four schools he mentioned if they so happen to extend him one and running with it rather than wasting another year, a peak year's future earnings, and taking a potential risk of not getting into UF again the second time around. I know as a finance major it's a bad business decision long-term. But I also realize there are some things that have sentimental value that can't be measured, such as his desire to graduate from UF. Ultimately it's a bad business decision, but it may be worth it if UF means that much to him.

 

[pulltheleverkronk]

Nobody is telling him to lower his expectations for his future, nor was I bashing him. I specifically said I wasn't meaning to offend the guy. The fact remains that just because dentist A graduates from Penn and dentist B graduates from Roseman, that doesn't mean dentist A will be more successful than dentist B. It ultimately does not matter what school you went to upon graduation other than some inner self-satisfaction you may get out of it. The only material difference is cost and potential debt. From looking at it from a business perspective, he's better off taking an acceptance from one of the four schools he mentioned if they so happen to extend him one and running with it rather than wasting another year, a peak year's future earnings, and taking a potential risk of not getting into UF again the second time around. I know as a finance major it's a bad business decision long-term. But I also realize there are some things that have sentimental value that can't be measured, such as his desire to graduate from UF. Ultimately it's a bad business decision, but it may be worth it if UF means that much to him.

Gotcha, gotcha

 

[Faux]

maybe send an email to UF regarding your interest in their school, how they are your #1 choice. I did the same thing with stony brook last year, which they were my #1 choice, and got an interview invite around 45 mins later. Ultimately got waited listed, but such is life.

doesn't hurt to try

 

[ajj70]

How do you know it will be your best fit without visiting/interviewing at the other schools? Are you a Florida resident?

 

[doc toothache]

One wonders why applicants are hell bent on applying to schools in the absence of an even remote interest.

 

[irishmom]

One wonders why applicants are hell bent on applying to schools in the absence of an even remote interest.

What he said. If you did not want to attend any school other than UF why did you apply to any other schools? They are called back ups for a reason, and it looks as if right about now you need these back ups.

 

[arejay]

AA 19
TS 20
PAT 21
OChem 17 (Ran out of time....checked C for last 6)
Biology 21
GChem 22
QR 17 (Also ran out of clock.... checked C for last 5)
RC 20

G.P.A. 3.35
Science G.P.A 3.6 🙂)

Hi guys, I am new to the SDN and wish I knew about this amazing community....well around 4 months ago. I would like to share some things about myself so you can get to know my personality a little better before I give a full breakdown, ask a bunch of questions and give some really good advice.:
-I am a resident of Florida.
-I am 23 years of age
-Graduated in May of 2015
-I Foster Cats and Dogs and help them get adopted
-I shadowed a public health dentist and felt that I was needed in that field.

I have gotten 4 interviews to schools that are ok. I have not gotten an Interview to the University of Florida which is my main concern. I really have been shooting to go here since I was a young lad. I was wondering if you guys think it is too late to start studying again and take the DAT before this session of admissions is over. That means I would take it around November 30th. I have not told Dental schools I plan on re taking it yet. I really thought a 19 was good enough, but turns out it really is not at all.

Word to the Wise, if you feel like your score is not good enough, just start studying again right as you walk out of your test and take it again 3 months later LIKE I SHOULD HAVE and I would be set right now.

Hey Lavguy, congrats on your four interviews! I know that it's discouraging to really want something (like your state school) and have it seem unattainable. I think you have every right to be worried and upset, but in the end, just remind yourself that four interviews is amazing, and the chances of you getting into dental school and becoming a dentist is pretty good. Keep your mind open and prep hard for those interviews because who knows, one of them may really surprise you and you'll find your perfect fit there. Applying to anything like about mutual selection. Those four schools saw something in you so give them a chance, maybe you'll come out pleasantly surprised.

 

[HookahLungs]

Hey OP I applied to schools like Pitt and Maryland and nova with no intention of attending nor did I care about the schools but as I interviewed there and learned about the schools they easily contest as my top schools to attend. I had other schools which I really wanted to attend which disappointed me during the actual interviews, I won't mention the school, but after all that I think these "back ups" became the schools I am currently praying to gain an acceptance to.

 

[postpitadh]

Nobody is telling him to lower his expectations for his future, nor was I bashing him. I specifically said I wasn't meaning to offend the guy. The fact remains that just because dentist A graduates from Penn and dentist B graduates from Roseman, that doesn't mean dentist A will be more successful than dentist B. It ultimately does not matter what school you went to upon graduation other than some inner self-satisfaction you may get out of it. The only material difference is cost and potential debt. From looking at it from a business perspective, he's better off taking an acceptance from one of the four schools he mentioned if they so happen to extend him one and running with it rather than wasting another year, a peak year's future earnings, and taking a potential risk of not getting into UF again the second time around. I know as a finance major it's a bad business decision long-term. But I also realize there are some things that have sentimental value that can't be measured, such as his desire to graduate from UF. Ultimately it's a bad business decision, but it may be worth it if UF means that much to him.

This makes so much sense. Thanks for enlightening me on how finance applies to us! I am currently reading through a finance book 😀

 

[Ollivander]

This makes so much sense. Thanks for enlightening me on how finance applies to us! I am currently reading through a finance book 😀

Sarcasm?

 

[postpitadh]

Sarcasm?

no, i'm serious. I majored in biology and I'm using my gap year to teach myself things that will be useful

 

[Ollivander]

no, i'm serious. I majored in biology and I'm using my gap year to teach myself things that will be useful

Sorry, I had to ask. I guess I've gotten so used to the trolls and sarcastic posts on here that I can't tell the difference anymore. I think that's very wise of you to do though. You'll have a leg up on your counterparts that don't have those business skills or knowledge come post-graduation. It'll help you even when deciding what dental schools to apply to, whether or not to pass on an acceptance, or your living situation while in school (rent vs own). I honestly wish I knew more than I do, and I majored in it.

 

[postpitadh]

Sorry, I had to ask. I guess I've gotten so used to the trolls and sarcastic posts on here that I can't tell the difference anymore. I think that's very wise of you to do though. You'll have a leg up on your counterparts that don't have those business skills or knowledge come post-graduation. It'll help you even when deciding what dental schools to apply to, whether or not to pass on an acceptance, or your living situation while in school (rent vs own). I honestly wish I knew more than I do, and I majored in it.

No worries, I understand haha. Yup i love biology and enjoy thinking like a scientist, but I don't want to be an employee so I might as well learn the business side of dentistry now before dental school hits! As a finance major, you can probably practice and expand or do something else on the side huh

 

[LAVGUY]

Wow... Thank you so much for all of your Replies !!!! This actually helped a lot. First off I really love UF because my dentist graduated from their, and I have around 12 friends that are either D1 or D2 there right now. Plus my Girlfriend is going to Law school their next year.... So it would make it less painful if we didn't have to be long distance for 4 years. So yes UF is my #1 because of all of those reasons. I applied to other schools, knowing how hard it is to get into UF. I will go to another school if I get accepted. I am not dead set on UF but it would make my life 10000000000 times easier. Also I do have a great background story and that is why some schools are interested in meeting me. @AuburnTiger @everyone else
@doc toothache 😉 understand my interest now?
Once again thanks for the replies You guys all rock. @irishmom I applied to other schools because I can and I am interested in seeing what they have to offer.

 

[irishmom]

I might as well learn the business side of dentistry now before dental school hits!

Read Uncompliate Business written by Howard Farran, DDS

 

[DrToothDriller]

I interviewed at UF and we were told that UF starts calling Dec 1st but interview will January. So, you might still get a chance if the rest of your application is attractive to them... You can always try to contact them... Their admissions office people are very nice... I mean, if you are that set in trying to go to UF... Like others have said, you should be grateful that you have 4 interviews. I understand that UF would make your life easier. I'm sure that's everyone's situation with their #1 choice. But, you know what, maybe you do fall in love with the other 4 schools. Whatever you decide to do, GOOD LUCK!!!! 🙂

 

[postpitadh]

Read Uncompliate Business written by Howard Farran, DDS

that looks like a great book for us! thanks for the recommendation.

 

[ajj70]

Wow... Thank you so much for all of your Replies !!!! This actually helped a lot. First off I really love UF because my dentist graduated from their, and I have around 12 friends that are either D1 or D2 there right now. Plus my Girlfriend is going to Law school their next year.... So it would make it less painful if we didn't have to be long distance for 4 years. So yes UF is my #1 because of all of those reasons. I applied to other schools, knowing how hard it is to get into UF. I will go to another school if I get accepted. I am not dead set on UF but it would make my life 10000000000 times easier. Also I do have a great background story and that is why some schools are interested in meeting me. @AuburnTiger @everyone else
@doc toothache 😉 understand my interest now?
Once again thanks for the replies You guys all rock. @irishmom I applied to other schools because I can and I am interested in seeing what they have to offer.

there....not their...hopefully someone proofed your PS 🙂.

 

[Mad Jack]

I wouldn't call him entitled. I think he has high expectations for himself. There's probably something else unique about him or his application that got him those four interviews. It's also not even December... Florida hasn't given out all their invites, I'm sure. If you don't get in and are dead-set on going, just reapply. Personally, I'd just go to one of the schools I interviewed at instead of wasting the money reapplying though.

Side note: Bashing people because you feel they should be less disappointed relative to how you feel doesn't make for a good discussion. Why shouldn't he expect to get in somewhere great? Lowering one's expectations for their future based on what other people say is a slippery slope.

Entitlement means feeling you deserve something you have not earned. Op comes off as feeling like he deserves an invite to a place that he has not earned, and is upset by it. He sounds pretty entitled to me.

Op, be grateful for what you have and hope for the best. Given your GPA, I'd be thrilled with your current results.