Non-Traditional Path: Interest in Dentistry and Looking for Next Steps

[curious_about_DS]

I graduated a year ago with a degree in Political Science from a Big Ten University, but I’ve always had a strong interest in dentistry. Over the past year, while coaching college basketball, I took the opportunity to shadow a dentist, which reinforced my enthusiasm for the field and helped me appreciate both the hands-on work and the stability the profession offers. My undergraduate GPA is around 3.3, though I haven’t yet started my science prerequisites. I’m curious to know how dental schools might weigh my undergraduate GPA compared to my future performance in the science prerequisites. Any insights would be greatly appreciated!

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[Mr.Smile12]

Welcome to the forums!

How long have you shadowed this dentist? I also suggest shadowing a different dental office: the practice of dentistry is running a business and not everyone practices the same way. Technology is different. Teamwork is different. Business management is different. Do whatever you can to be involved in an office as a dental assistant if possible. Get connected to the local community of dentists via conferences or any study groups.

What advice have you gotten from the dentists you shadow about your path? How flexible are you when considering options to take your prerequisites again?

 

[macsak]

I graduated a year ago with a degree in Political Science from a Big Ten University, but I’ve always had a strong interest in dentistry. Over the past year, while coaching college basketball, I took the opportunity to shadow a dentist, which reinforced my enthusiasm for the field and helped me appreciate both the hands-on work and the stability the profession offers. My undergraduate GPA is around 3.3, though I haven’t yet started my science prerequisites. I’m curious to know how dental schools might weigh my undergraduate GPA compared to my future performance in the science prerequisites. Any insights would be greatly appreciated!

make really sure you want it
shadow different GP offices and specialists too
it's possible to get accepted if you do well in your sciences and DAT...