DAT done...finally. Retake?

[nunskie]

---

Members do not see this ad.

Hey guys, so I studied long and hard and have finally taken the DAT. I forgot what the sun looked like! Let me preface this by saying I could have easily done better. I never took timed tests that people kept stressing to me, which is completely my fault. I ran out of time in the sciences and started skipping over chem problems I knew how to do just in order to get to ochem (which I also just flew through hap hazardly to finish). I don't necessirially think this test is as much a factor of intelligence as much as determination. Anyone who really wants to can and will do to well, you just have to work. While I know I can do better, that test is a lot of money and that would mean more review time. I don't really know what good scores actually are from seeing the bucket load of 23+ on here, so it's stressing me out. I just need some out side advice. Thanks!

Perceptual Ability- 22
Quantitative Reasoning- 20
Reading Comprehension- 18 😕
Biology- 23
General Chemistry- 17
Organic Chemistry- 19
Total Science- 20
Academic Average- 19

I have a 3.8 GPA and 3.7 science GPA, plus am super involved. Would you retake or just see where this gets you? I have such a skewed perception of what good scores are.

 

[Bis-GMA111]

with those gpas, you're set. no need for a retake in my opinion

 

[Shazzam]

with those gpas, you're set. no need for a retake in my opinion

I agree completely. Congrats on a job well done!

 

[Mumford]

Average AA of ACCEPTED students is a 19 and you don't have any really low individual scores. GPA is above average as well. Assuming your ECs are decent, I'd say you're done. Congrats!!! Now, sit back and enjoy your freedom, you deserve it. Any idea on where you will be applying?

 

[Glimmer1991]

I don't think that 17 GC would be a deal breaker, especially if you had good grades in your actual general chemistry class. If you're involved and have lots of other things going for you, I don't think you need to retake!

Also, just as an aside, I never took a single timed test. I don't think they're necessary.

 

[nunskie]

I don't think that 17 GC would be a deal breaker, especially if you had good grades in your actual general chemistry class. If you're involved and have lots of other things going for you, I don't think you need to retake!

Also, just as an aside, I never took a single timed test. I don't think they're necessary.

I agree with you that they are not necessary to a point. Some people can do without. I'm just a slow test taker. I couldn't finish the QR until I did 2 practice tests just to get a feel for the speed I needed. Once I know how fast I need to work I can do it. But if your naturally quick or at least somewhat moderate at taking tests, you should have no problem.


Also thanks everyone. This is just a weight off my shoulders!

 

[ryansgs]

I think you'll be fine.

But if you are still worried you should visit or call a dental school adviser to see what they think.

 

[nunskie]

I think you'll be fine.

But if you are still worried you should visit or call a dental school adviser to see what they think.

Fun story, I actually just talked to the advisor and he suggested I consider a retake. I'm emailing deans of admissions right now. It's starting to feel like more studying is in my future.

 

[Shazzam]

Fun story, I actually just talked to the advisor and he suggested I consider a retake. I'm emailing deans of admissions right now. It's starting to feel like more studying is in my future.

Where are you planning to apply? I'm surprised your were advised to retake.

 

[ryansgs]

Fun story, I actually just talked to the advisor and he suggested I consider a retake. I'm emailing deans of admissions right now. It's starting to feel like more studying is in my future.

Then you should. Its not a big deal to do a retake. Simply make sure you leave the test bloody and crying in the corner after you beat the heck out of it.