Major Dilemma

[kimcath2]

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Hi guys

I am not sure if it's smart to even apply on this June cycle. I just took my second DAT in May and only got 19AA19TS22PAT. and I have around 2.9 GPA and 2.8 sGPA (I'm chem major). I was thinking about retaking my DAT (earliest August 18th) so I called UofM, Tufts, western (one from each region) and asked them if I should take my last chance. but everyone gave me very vague answers, saying they dont see why I want to retake my DAT... they also said they look at everything but I feel like if they see my GPA, they'll automatically turn me down. and also I'm afraid that August might be too late

Any advice would be appreciated!

 

[takedailyfiber]

Well, I would actually look at improving that GPA. If you could do that (meaning nailing A's in upper division science courses for a year or two, you might not have to retake the DAT.

The other option is the retake the DAT and get obscenely high scores, which might convince the schools that science is not a problem for you. But, if you've taken it twice, you might want to work on the GPA instead - under a 3.0 is a little low for d-schools.

As of now, I don't think you should apply and expect to get in, but anything could happen, right? I think it's not likely though, just my opinion.

 

[FutureDent020]

Hi guys

I am not sure if it's smart to even apply on this June cycle. I just took my second DAT in May and only got 19AA19TS22PAT. and I have around 2.9 GPA and 2.8 sGPA (I'm chem major). I was thinking about retaking my DAT (earliest August 18th) so I called UofM, Tufts, western (one from each region) and asked them if I should take my last chance. but everyone gave me very vague answers, saying they dont see why I want to retake my DAT... they also said they look at everything but I feel like if they see my GPA, they'll automatically turn me down. and also I'm afraid that August might be too late

Any advice would be appreciated!

It seems that they are suggesting it's not your DAT score that will keep you from getting in..

 

[MrBeans]

A lot of factors can determine your success: under-represented, under-privileged, ethnicity, first time applicant, etc.

If it's your first time applying, I'd almost suggest to give applying a shot. It wouldn't hurt you, it may actually help you on your second time applying.

You really need to take more science courses to improve your GPA.

Coupled with an improved GPA and a slightly higher DAT score, I think you'd stand a good chance as a second time applicant for the 2012 cycle.

 

[kimcath2]

Thank you for all your replies.

I graduated in 2009 and am really hoping not go back to school because of some financial issues :'( I've been working as a dental assistant for almost a year, been really active in school, got three good (i hope) LORs. If there any other way I can improve my chance without going back to school?

sighh...

 

[MrBeans]

Thank you for all your replies.

I graduated in 2009 and am really hoping not go back to school because of some financial issues :'( I've been working as a dental assistant for almost a year, been really active in school, got three good (i hope) LORs. If there any other way I can improve my chance without going back to school?

sighh...

Be sure that your LORs are from instructors who TAUGHT YOU! I got caught off guard by this.

Also, depending upon what school you apply to, they have different LOR requirements (e.g. - employer, supervisor, volunteer coordinator, dentist etc.)

 

[takedailyfiber]

Thank you for all your replies.

I graduated in 2009 and am really hoping not go back to school because of some financial issues :'( I've been working as a dental assistant for almost a year, been really active in school, got three good (i hope) LORs. If there any other way I can improve my chance without going back to school?

sighh...

Well, you'd really have to knock those DATs out of the park, and then have a killer personal statement. If you are a pressure player, then you could do that. With enough dental experience/ECs/volunteering, you would have a shot.

Could you enroll part-time, or take a few science classes at a time at a local state U? Getting the GPA above 3-point would really help greatly, if you can spare the finances.