Need some guidance and feedback please

[JakeDawson]

---

Members don't see this ad.

About Me:

College: University of Dallas
Major: Computer Science
Year: Junior
oGPA: 3.72
sGPA: 3.53
DAT: Not taken
EC: Plenty
Shadow: None
Research: None


I am having a tough time figuring this out myself, so I'm hoping one of you guys could help me out.

1) I want to take the DAT and shadow this summer so I can apply by July for the class of 2018. However, *If* I actually get interviewed and accepted, I am not sure if I will actually be able to complete my Computer Science degree before Dental school starts in Fall 2014. What do you think would happen in that case? Would they not take me in anymore because I would not have a completed undergraduate degree? (I will have over 100 hours by the time I apply).

2) This semester I had to drop Organic Chemistry II and take a W because my professor didn't know how to teach, and she barely provided any help. That is the real reason, but lets just say "no excuses". I failed myself, and would have ended up with a C. How bad does that 1 W look?
And I do plan on studying for the DAT and taking it, as well as applying to dental school before re-taking Organic Chemistry II. How bad would that look?

I am asking for any advice/guidance/suggestions you guys can provide that would enhance my chances of being admitted into a Dental school (preferably any of the Texas schools).

Thanks!

 

[DancingBull]

You have to state when you will get your degree when you apply. That means that if they accept you, they will already know if you won't have it by the time you matriculate. 1 W isn't a deal breaker but it certainly doesn't look good. As long as you have very solid grade in your other science classes, it should be fine.

 

[Toofly01]

Regarding your 1st question, DancingBull already answered it perfectly. If you are still confused and/or concerned, call up some dental schools, tell them your situation, and ask for their advice. Only they will be able to tell you exactly what they expect.

Regarding your 2nd question, well honestly it's too late for this, but I would personally rather take a C over a W. Getting a W may raise a lot more questions in the mind of an adcom than a C... it may lead them to think you were going to get an F and instead opted for the W (which is why most people withdraw at that point). That being said, 1 W will not prevent you from getting into d school, just make sure to show an upward trend (esp in the sciences!) and please no more W's. Best of luck.

 

[tigerteeth22]

I'd honestly rather have a W than a C because when you take it again you've already learned half of it and you'll probably get an A not to mention probably score high on the DAT because you know the material so well.

And if you don't finish your degree you'll probably get your acceptance revoked.

 

[hl4jn]

,

 

[JakeDawson]

Thanks for the feedback everyone, I appreciate it!

I think I will just wait another year to apply, well, unless I miraculously get 27s on the DAT =)

Also, one last question:
When I apply, I would like to apply as early as possible. If I can get everything in by
June, EXCEPT the Letters of Recommendation (would have them by august), does it mean that I would be considered as a late applicant?