Research experience won't help your application?

[ucla2134]

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Hi guys!
I know that research experience will help you on your application but one of my friends got into Loma Linda and UCLA without any research experience, whereas my other friend had published 2 journals but don't get into any dental school.
The funny thing is both of them graduate at same school, has familiar GPA and DAT score. I know that they are not lying to me about their stats since they are my good friends.
So i'm really confuse. Can anyone explain what's happening?

 

[GRAD]

dont think about apps like that. an app is a whole, maybe the person who got in interviewed really well or had a bunch of personal exp, etc. dont think research exp is everything

 

[moistener]

Your friend didn't get in because d-schools hate people who do research, that's why...ever thought of that?

Haha I'm just bugging you because your question is very foolish. Think of other factors that are more subjective like the interview, personal background and experience. Did you do well or even take stats class? There are other variables!

 

[Streetwolf]

I left that entire section blank and still got in to everywhere I interviewed at.

 

[Dentalist]

each dental school looks for different qualities from applicants, so it's really difficult to determine whether or not one will get accepted solely based on the numbers and ec's.

Personally, I feel research can help but it's not that much of importance. I have done over 2 yrs of research, and was only asked one question during the interview. At one of my interviews, I was not even asked about it. Seriously, if you are really into research, by all means do it. However, don't think that it will make up for your grades/ test score. After going through this process, I say the number/test score are the most important factor in admission.

Really, do whatever interests you. they don't care if it's research, volunteer, sports, job, or religious activity. They are looking for anything that shows a strong commitment.

Best of luck to ya!

BTW, I'm a fellow bruin too hehe - doesn't it feel great to beat the trojans? 😀