In my interview, I got a paper that lists freshman tuition and budget . All the numbers are in 4 digits (ex: 2000 computer, personal 4000) and some are in 5 digits (50000 tuition, 12000 room). I am concerned
about high cost of dental education. So I need your advice.
How you are handling your finances?
OWhat is your experience in financing?
What are things that I should do?
What are things that I should not do?
Any kind of advice will help and I appreciate all your advice.
You are not alone. A lot of people are concerned. Unfortunately, if you want to be a dentist, the education will cost a lot, especially if you do not attend a state dental school. A private dental school education could cost over $300,000 without specialization. Even an inexpensive state dental school, for all four years, could run to close to $200,000 including interest accrued while in school.
Over 29 years ago, when I applied to school, I didn't think about the debt, nor did I think about how much money I was going to earn. It was all very abstract. I was just told by many family members and friends that by becoming a dentist, I would make a nice living and have a nice schedule. As always, it's very easy for people to over simplify other people's lives. It was not so simple.
If you are very secure in the fact that you want to be a dentist, and you understand that you will be obligated to work, not because of a military contract, but because you will have a lot of debt to work off, you will be fine.
There is an article, readily available, on the USAToday.com website/Money/"I have nightmares" with a video of chiropractor, Heather Schopp, 29 years old, discussing her student loan story. She offers some advice. Very best wishes.
http://www.usatoday.com/money/perfi/credit/2006-11-19-young-and-in-debt-cover_x.htm
