Non-Traditional Applicant Review

[SailingDoctor]

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Hello All,


I am a non-traditional applicant with strong work experience that includes managing 100+ employees, working as a builder in a boat shop, and currently as a dental assistant with around 1000 chairside hours. I graduated from Ohio State in 2011 with a degree in communications. I have since returned to school to complete prereqs in order to be able to apply. Here are some facts/figures about my application so far. Please let me know what your thoughts are and any suggestions you may have about schools to apply to in addition to Ohio State and Case Western.

GPA
from undergrad: 2.9
Since undergrad: 4.0 (with all science courseload)
currently 3.1+

I have not completed the DAT yet, plan on taking it after my spring semester.

Observation hours: 60+ and counting (oral surgery, multiple GP's, and free clinic observation)
Volunteer experience: hundreds of hours in a variety of sources

Obviously my GPA is a concern but I hope that I can make up for that with a solid DAT score this spring. My wife and I are willing to relocate for school as her job provides her with a lot of flexibility.

If you have any questions let me know, I am eager to hear what your thoughts are!

 

[Dr. Dan]

Very strong application imo, considering the 1000+ hours as a dental assistant. The GPA is not as bad as you might believe and as long as you score decently on your DAT I think you have a pretty good shot. I personally wouldn't take any chances when you're finished writing and apply early / broadly. I think increasing your statistical odds is smart even at the cost of higher expenses (especially if you have the funds)