Personal Statment

[john216]

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Hello I'm considering US dental schools and getting my application ready.

For my undergrad, my GPA isn't that great compared to other applilcants and average DAT score

When you write a personal statement, should you be include about your GPA and why its not good, and also about the DAT score as well?



thanks

 

[mardets]

The DS already know your GPA and DAT scores, so it won't do much to your PS. Try to think of the PS as a blank canvas that you can be creative about, you can do whatever you want with it. It is one of the few ways the DS can get to know about you as a person instead of just a name and some numbers.

Unless you want to write about your undergrad experience or something related to the DAT then sure I guess.

 

[DentalDoge]

Dont write about your GPA, but do write about little bumps in your academic career.

 

[sjv]

From the ADEA guide from 2 years ago:

The ADEA AADSAS application requires a personal essay on your reasons for pursuing a dental education. Where do you start? Put yourself in the shoes of the admissions committees that read application essays. They are looking for individuals who are motivated, academically prepared, articulate, socially conscious, and knowledgeable about the profession. What can you tell admissions committees about yourself that will make you stand out?

Here are some possible topics for your essay:
How did you become interested in studying dentistry? Be honest. If you knew you wanted to be a dentist from the age of six, that’s fine, but if you didn’t that’s all right, too. Explain how you discovered dentistry as a career possibility and what you have done to research the career. Admissions committees are looking for how well thought-out your career plans are.

What have you done to demonstrate your interest in dentistry? Have you observed or working in dental offices? Have you talked to practicing dentists? How good is your understanding of general dental practice? How do you envision yourself using your dental degree?

What have you done to demonstrate your commitment to helping others?

Do you have any special talents or leadership skills that could be transferable to the practice of dentistry?

Have you benefited from any special experiences such as participating in research or internships?

Did you have to work to pay for you education? How was that made you a stronger applicant?

Have you had to overcome hardships or obstacles to get where you are today? How has this influenced your motivation for advanced education?

When you write a personal statement, should you be include about your GPA and why its not good, and also about the DAT score as well?