Pre-dental student: part time semester

[DRChipskylark]

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I haven't used this site before, but wanted some opinions on something I'm worried about. I am in my senior year about to finish up my last semester. I generally take 12-15 credits a semester and my pre-dental advisor was a little concerned. He said that dental schools want to see that you can take a large course load. Bt I want to be a part time student this semester ( taking like 9 credits). But I want to spend time taking a DAT prep course, shadowing my dentist, working part time, and I start my internship tomorrow. I have a 3.469 ( with the +/- system) and I was hoping a good DAT score would make up for it.
Is it a bad idea to be part time, even if I'm doing other things outside of classes? I'm worried if I take a heavier course load and all that other stuff my GPA will drop. I can't afford for it to get any lower, because I am in the process of applying.

I just don't want my grades to drop since ill be taking all science courses and will have a lot of other obligations.

any opinions? I keep hearing different things

 

[Typical Average Student]

Full time course load looks a lot better than a few more hours of shadowing.
Don't take Kaplan if that's what you're talking about... it's a big waste of time. I took it. I regretted it.
Also, yes, a good DAT score will make up for a slightly lower GPA.

Manage your time wisely, stay organized, and you will do well.

 

[changtw]

My concerns were the same as yours, and I wound up doing part-time my final semester. I took two upper div courses, worked ~30 hours a week, and studied for the DAT.

I had initially wanted to do a full load of courses to raise my sPA (around 3.4 rounded up at the time), but ultimately decided I didn't want to risk taking on too much and not doing well.

It didn't end up being a problem for me at all when I was applying this cycle. Do what you feel will work best for you. Your GPA is fine, and if you need to dedicate time to study for the DAT, do that. I was apprehensive at first, but was so glad I went with my gut and stuck through it.

 

[sweetpeeas]

Full time course load looks a lot better than a few more hours of shadowing.
Don't take Kaplan if that's what you're talking about... it's a big waste of time. I took it. I regretted it.
Also, yes, a good DAT score will make up for a slightly lower GPA.

Manage your time wisely, stay organized, and you will do well.

Agree on every point. DO NOT TAKE KAPLAN. Waste of time & money. Their materials are super old. Use that money on DAT Destroyer, Chad's Videos, & DAT Bootcamp! Will be cheaper and definitely more helpful!