Are there any practicing military dentists that can offer a thoughtful opinion on the military HPSP scholarships? Specifically, the Air Force in today's environment?
I am applying to dental school this year and, like many, have serious concerns about the cost and debt burden. I’m acutely aware of this having worked in corporate finance for years, and am just generally cautious with money. I have heard that the AEGD residencies in the USAF are top-notch and offer a great environment to develop skills beyond simply drilling and filling.
Nonetheless, I have also heard that "skills atrophy" may be a real concern in the military. Despite the lack of worry about student debt, patient finances, and job placement at the end of dental school, is it a legitimate concern that after the 5 year payback period, one would be significantly behind private sector dentists in terms of their skills repertoire? Is a reasonable amount of student loans ($300K) worth it in exchange for higher earnings from day 1 and ability to take any CE course to quickly add to one's skill set?
I would like to own and operate a practice at some point, possibly as a specialist. I understand that the latter is much harder to do in the military, but it can be done. Any insights?
I am applying to dental school this year and, like many, have serious concerns about the cost and debt burden. I’m acutely aware of this having worked in corporate finance for years, and am just generally cautious with money. I have heard that the AEGD residencies in the USAF are top-notch and offer a great environment to develop skills beyond simply drilling and filling.
Nonetheless, I have also heard that "skills atrophy" may be a real concern in the military. Despite the lack of worry about student debt, patient finances, and job placement at the end of dental school, is it a legitimate concern that after the 5 year payback period, one would be significantly behind private sector dentists in terms of their skills repertoire? Is a reasonable amount of student loans ($300K) worth it in exchange for higher earnings from day 1 and ability to take any CE course to quickly add to one's skill set?
I would like to own and operate a practice at some point, possibly as a specialist. I understand that the latter is much harder to do in the military, but it can be done. Any insights?
