Is my dental school dream over?

[85-29]

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Hello SDN community,

As would the majority of us here, I aspire to attend dental school and work in the field of dentistry. Unfortunately, and despite my best efforts (it's not like I've blown off studying), my GPA really took a hit this year. At the beginning of the spring semester I met with my university's pre-health professional advisor and she told me that the spring semester was my "make it or break it" semester -- either I get all A's and can continue as a pre-dent or else I should figure out another career path. Needless to say, I did not get all A's and I am seeking your advice as to whether or not I should continue to pursue my dream (vs. follow my advisor's suggestion and look into other career opportunities). I am a rising junior at a relatively prestigious university and I am majoring in Cognitive & Behavioral Neuroscience and minoring in Chinese. In addition to completing my undergraduate studies, I am planning on taking a gap year after I graduate to participate in research. Any insight on my chances of dental school admission would be much appreciated! My friends have told me to follow my dreams and do whatever it takes to accomplish them, but I am trying to balance the thought of doing everything possible to get into dental school with the reality of time and expenses. Thanks in advance for your help!
Cumulative GPA: 3.54
Science GPA: 3.096
BCP GPA: 3.16
Extra curricular activities: EMS (EMT-B, Secretary), Freshmen Leadership Learning Community (student facilitator), Academic Reform Committee (general member), Pre-Dental Student Association (general member) and Leadership Academy
Awards and Accomplishments: Dean's List (fall 2014, spring 2015), EMS Member of the Year 2015-2016, assistant triage officer for NCAA Final Four game (mass patient care experience), and triage officer for NCAA Championship game (mass patient care experience, and leadership experience)

 

[Incis0r]

"Is my dental school dream over?"

Nope. With that oGPA and a strong DAT, I think you have a good shot.

 

[JLT223]

What are these "advisors" smoking?

 

[doktorinprogres]

A rising junior as in you have 2 years of grades to come. I think you need to evaluate your study habits and do your absolute best to not get anything lower than a B+ (obviously A's are the goal) in your science courses particularly but other than that you can tell the advisor her drug dealer is cutting her stuff with toxic materials possibly paint thinner.

 

[super frank]

I had a lower sGPA than you when I started Junior year. Now it is a 3.50. I didn't see your cGPA until now, it's very good. You are completely fine.

 

[TXftw]

Truth is, most university pre-health advisors have little idea what is acceptable to get into professional schools.

So true! Don't listen to your pre-health advisor. Obviously it would be ideal if your science GPA was a bit higher, but you can still make it. Studying for science classes is not easy and it looks like you may need to adjust your approach. I would advise that you supplement your studying with chads videos for the rest of your pre-req science classes if you can. Efficiency is the name of the game and these videos helped me study in a much more efficient manner.

 

[biochem5]

Dental school first 2 years are going to have about one undergrad semester's worth of science work every 3-4 weeks (so 4x undergrad work until you get to clinic). I would consider if you think you can handle that big of an increase in studying/work load.