Tips for getting into Michigan?

[bwc]

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I am a Michigan resident, so unless another school is willing to give me a very generous scholarship (but I will not count on it, I have to be grateful to even be given an acceptance), University of Michigan will be my most cost effective option.

GPA: overall 3.62, science 3.56, BCP 3.48 (with +/-)
DAT: 23 AA, 20 TS (but bio is 18), 20 PAT

I have lived in Michigan all my life, so whether or not they will classify me as a Michigan resident for the purposes of admission is not even a question. I got my undergrad degree from University of Michigan.

I meet all their admissions requirements (coursework and shadowing).

Are there any tips for increasing my chances of admission? I do understand that even if my stats are up to par, it is still a crap shoot.

 

[1ysh]

They have multiple mini interviews (MMI), unless they change it this year. Be sure to articulate your thoughts on various issues regarding dentistry in clear manner, demonstrating ethical views and sympathy.

 

[tiper15]

I've seen around that Michigan really likes research.

 

[Lane138]

One not-so-obvious thing that will greatly increase your changes of acceptance is showing an in-depth understanding of the school. Since you live in Michigan, you can and should absolutely arrange a campus visit. Walk around, talk to students, ask questions about the program (before anyone knows who you are). You will be a much stronger applicant and interviewee if you can say "I really like how the school supports student research through grants or I like how involved the dental students are in organized dentistry" instead of just "it's the cheapest program for me."

 

[deleted696582]

I'm sure that if you show interviewers you are highly interested in the program and knowledgeable about the school it will help your cause. If you want to know more about the school you can send me a message. Your DAT will help you a lot as well. You don't need research to get in, but that's not to say it wouldn't help you. I did zero hours research.

Really prove to the MMI interviewers that you are well-spoken, willing to work with others, and ready to help out in your future community. However you need to do that is up to you (examples could include writing out your goals, reflecting on your experiences, or practicing interviewing with people you know). Michigan wants a diverse class, so highlight what makes you different.

 

[887194]

Michigan loves to see research as @tiper55 mentioned.

 

[averageasian]

I interviewed at Michigan as OOS with almost zero "research". Schools look to see that you've done things other than check off mental boxes.

That being said, They really emphasized at the interview they are focused on research and showed us a slide about the amount of NIH/NSF funding they get, which is a lot.

Whether you do research or not, it probably wont be the sole reason you do or dont get a seat over someone else.

 

[bwc]

So I've done research before (two summers worth), and while I don't hate it, I am not passionate enough about it such that I would want to make a career out of it.

 

[tiper15]

So I've done research before (two summers worth), and while I don't hate it, I am not passionate enough about it such that I would want to make a career out of it.

That is fine, but it definitely will add to your application that you have experience in it, and therefore it is skill and knowledge you can add to the community when you join.