Couple Questions?

[corymartin2012]

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1.) Is it possible to get undergrad degree in Biology (or whatever) then enlist/commission into the US Military for a 4-5 year stint then come back and apply to dental school? The majority of people say its unheard of but not sure if its even possible? I believe the DAT expires after 4 years? (unsure) but just curious.

2.) When Dental Schools are looking at cGPA and sGPA which one weighs heavier. Lets say you have a cGPA of 3.55 and sGPA of 3.84. Are you going to be a very competitive applicant (I'm in Texas).

3.) Lastly, just a clarification. One or two W's are okay. After that it seems repetitive and shows lack of academic strength correct? I had to put a W in General Chemistry this semester because I tried to work 40 hour job (stupid) and take care of a practically dying girlfriend (heart problems, fixed now). Being my freshman year it shouldn't be overly looked upon as long as I take it next semester and A+ that bad boy right?

Thanks guys!

 

[Tangymoose]

1. I believe you can do this but I don't know if this would affect your chances of getting in. I interviewed at Louisville with someone who graduated, went into military for a few years, and than decided to apply for dental school. We gave him a round of applause for his service. Its not unheard of but you would certainly be a non-traditional application. Also, I believe schools want DAT scores within the last 2 years of you applying.

2. I would say both are equally important. Maybe science GPA a little more than cumulative GPA but if you have a GPA bigger than 3.5, I would say you don't have to worry too much about it.

3. Surprisingly, a lot of people applying to dental school do have W. I have 4 myself (for an quarter I had to leave in the middle). My friend, who is also applying, has 4 also throughout his undergrad year. As long as you justify your W if they ask, it is not a big deal.