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[kramkrap]

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I just recently changed career goals, from a business field to a field in dentistry. I am definately excited about dentistry and I wish to learn more. I was wondering if anyone can help me out with a few general questions:

1a) If i want to pursue residency and a future career in NY, can I goto a dental school in a different state?
1b) What are the state limitations in dentistry?
2a) Are dental schools more prestigious then others?
2b) Would a residency program or a future job in a dental firm, take into account which dental school I went to?
3a) I am a sophomore in college, should I be volunteering/ interning asap?
3b) How big is volunteering/interning a factor in applying to dental schools.
4.) How much do dental schools factor in the interviews?

THanks

 

[IcySpice06]

1a) Yes, you can go to a school not in NY and get a residency in NY. But, most people after school have plenty of clinical experience and decide not to do a resdency. That doesn't mean that they don't exist though.
1b) I don't know what you're actually refering to. But, regions of states have different board exams they have to pass. I'm not sure on the specifics but, regional exams are valid in state regions, and may even be valid in states outside the region.
2a) Sure, for names-sake. By attending an Ivy you are more likely to be selected for a specialty program. But, Ivy League educations tend to be very expensive. In the end, a dentist is a dentist and you're both doing the same work.
2b) Maybe, maybe not. They'd most likely want to know your class rank in your dental school and your board scores. Specialty programs would for sure weigh that heavily. Dental school isn't like medical school where you have to hope for a good residency - it really doesn't matter unless you want to do it because you don't feel adequately prepared.
3a) YES, YES, YES. Start shadowing, join the pre-dental club (if you're into it), join clubs that are in your major (specifically ones that are heavy into volunteer work), try research, start volunteering at a homeless shelter or a soup kitchen (I volunteered at one for 3 years every Sunday and dental schools have been really impressed by that), aim for Dean's or President's List, Try to get into an honors fraternity, and be a leader in something. Try to be as well rounded as possible. Oh, and work too.
3b) Very Big. If all they have to go off of is your grades - who cares. Anyone can pull great grades if they don't work, volunteer, shadow, and are big couch potatos. It shows your motivation toward a career (ulitimately) of service.
4.) Big. They want to make sure you aren't a goofus and you can construct complete thoughts and sentences. It's critical to be able to explain a procedure to a patient in a way that they'll understand. If you can't explain, for example, "why you want to be a dentist" in a way an ADCOM can understand, how will that make you a good future dentist?? It wont. If you have an interview, you're probably on a level playing field with all the other applicants so relax, be honest, and be articulate.

 

[kramkrap]

thanks icy