4 Months until I apply, what can I do to boost my App?

[Reazor16]

---

Members do not see this ad.

Hey SDN, senior undergrad NY resident here. I took the DAT last summer, got an 18AA 17 Science total (gosh darn 15 OC). Because of my score, I opted to not apply and retake the DAT next (this) summer and take a gap year.

Senior year has flown by and here I am 4 months before I take the DAT again and actually apply to schools. My only question to you is what I should do the next 4 months (other than study) to make my app better.

GPA: 3.6
sGPA:3.5
Research: 1.5 years of research on two different projects
Volunteering: 75ish hours at animal shelter
Shadowing: 50 at general, 75 at pediatric, 25 at oral surgeon
Work experience: 3.5 years (over a thousand hours) at pediatric dentist office doing paper work, manning front desk, assisting hygienists during sealants and some cleanings, etc.

My number one school I want to attend is UB. What should I focus on?

 

[577455]

Do well on the DAT and you are set. Make sure you have a compelling masterpiece for your personal statement.

 

[Reazor16]

Do well on the DAT and you are set. Make sure you have a compelling masterpiece for your personal statement.

For my personal statement, would talking about the experience(s) I have had working in the pediatric office be beneficial for me? I began in there shadowing and it turned into a job. Everything I have seen (both business side and dental side) is what solidified my career path to become a dentist.

 

[577455]

For my personal statement, would talking about the experience(s) I have had working in the pediatric office be beneficial for me? I began in there shadowing and it turned into a job. Everything I have seen (both business side and dental side) is what solidified my career path to become a dentist.

Yes mention it. But don't forget the bigger picture. You should explain why you want to be a dentist. Experience can be used to provide evidence to what your saying.

 

[Reazor16]

Yes mention it. But don't forget the bigger picture. You should explain why you want to be a dentist. Experience can be used to provide evidence to what your saying.

Thanks!

 

[rolltide15]

I would try to get more volunteering hours

 

[BK165]

Hey there! I'm not sure where you live/go to school, but if you can, I would definitely try to attend some of the UB pre-dental programs, especially their impressions day program which they usually have in the March/ April time. It's a good opportunity to get your foot in the door, meet some faculty and students, and then be able to use it to show interest if you get an interview for the upcoming cycle! I went last year and learned a lot of pointers for writing a personal statement and the application process in general. Definitely try to get higher than a 17 in all areas and aim for at least a 20 AA. You have good ECs and shadowing hours. Just make sure you have something else that sets you apart (i.e. craft, sport, hobby, etc.)!

 

[C_BryantDDS]

I would try to get more volunteering hours

I second getting more volunteer hours but I would recommend getting some hours involving people, rather than an animal shelter, such as a homeless shelter, adult literacy tutor, etc.

 

[C_BryantDDS]

I would also recommend doing something to show your manual dexterity such as taking a sculpting class or wood carving.