VCU SAEP or Study for DAT?

[MRZ8]

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I'm a resident of VA and VCU Summer Academic Enrichment Program app deadline is 2/15. I'm a junior and spring semester ends mid-May. With a 3.38 oGPA & 3.12 sGPA upwards trend, I want to apply after graduation so my application includes senior grades. I plan to take the DAT this summer. I'm interested in doing VCU SAEP because VCU is my in-state/dream school.

Would you suggest doing:
(A) VCU SAEP (5/21-7/2), study after July 2 for one month and take the DAT in mid-August? or
(B) Follow an 8-week study plan and focus on DAT?

I lean towards the latter, but must apply broadly to compensate for below average GPAs. I would like to hear from you. Thank you.

 

[wazian2018]

If you aren't applying next cycle (since you said you're applying after senior year) then I'd say do the VCU SAEP since you'll have plenty of time to fit in studying for the DAT before you apply (and apply early as possible!!!). As a VA resident I know this program offers a stipend, so you'd be improving your chances at dental school, learning a bit more about the field, and earning money- while still having a month left in your summer to study for the DAT (you'd be surprised at how much you can learn in a month)! (A) seems like a win/win situation to me

 

[fatcat145]

Honestly speaking, if you're hoping this program to give you better advantage of getting into VCU, I have to say it mostly likely will not. The adcom at VCU DS doesn't even know about the existence of the program. That says a lot about how big of a role SAEP plays when your application is being reviewed. How do I know that? Bc I did SAEP summers ago. Unlike SAEP, I went through the MED program at UNC, the coordinators of this program are parts of the adcoms of both med and dental school at UNC. They are more likely to be able to voice their opinions about you through the program when your application being reviewed. However, regardless of how big of an advantage each program gives, these programs are still good exposures to the real intensity of all the classes that you will be taking as a D1. I'm really grateful to have been accepted into both.