How does UPenn focus on research affect clinical experience?

[WhiteAndGreen18]

Hey everybody. I have been accepted to UPenn for dental school, and I am currently deciding between there and Maryland. I spoke with the Dean of Admissions at Penn, who said that the difference between the schools is that Penn has a more research oriented focus, while Maryland is very strong clinically. I am not interested in research, so I was wondering if anyone who goes to UPenn could offer some insight to this issue. How does the focus on research affect the curriculum/experience at UPenn? Would I be better off attending another school if I have no interest in research? Thank you.

 

[whlee84]

Either school will make you into a great dentist with plenty of clinical experience, so don't worry about that. You don't have to love research to attend a research strong school. Just choose the school you want to attend for 4 years, and the location. If you don't LOVE either school a lot more than the other, just choose maryland since it's cheaper.

 

[HupHolland]

It's interesting that the dean of admissions at Penn says that there is more of a research focus at Penn, yet Maryland got 1.4 million more dollars in research funding than Penn in 2008 (source: http://www.nidcr.nih.gov/GrantsAndF...talSchools/GrantstoDentalInstitutions2008.htm), 1.1 million more in 07, etc. Something doesn't add up.

Hup

PS- if you're out of state at Maryland, go to the school that you felt more comfortable at as both are expensive. I love Maryland, but cannot compare it to Penn. Best of luck with your decision and congrats.