What to do next in undergrad?

[s4mblue]

---

Members don't see this ad.

So I'm going into Life Sciences at UofT this fall, and was wondering how else I can prepare for becoming a dentist other than through getting the best marks possible

For example, where do I go to find out where I can shadow a dentist at work?

Or, what volunteering opportunities should I engage in, in the time leading up to my interview to various Canadian dental schools?

Thanks,
Samuel

 

[PapaGuava]

@artist2022 may have a few tips for you! 🙂

 

[artist2022]

For sure!

So I'm going into Life Sciences at UofT this fall, and was wondering how else I can prepare for becoming a dentist other than through getting the best marks possible

For example, where do I go to find out where I can shadow a dentist at work?

Or, what volunteering opportunities should I engage in, in the time leading up to my interview to various Canadian dental schools?

Thanks,
Samuel

So yes, besides keeping your grades up, as high as you can, get involved in your pre-dental society, and perhaps pursue a leadership position in it. You should also participate in other extracurricular activities- follow your interests and volunteer with organizations that do those kinds of things. It's much easier to write genuinely about something you enjoy, rather than about something you felt you had to do "for the sake of your application". You can also look into doing research, as some schools really like that (like UCLA, UCSF, the Ivys, etc).

For shadowing, I think it's best to start with your own dentist, to see if you can shadow them. If not, then perhaps call offices nearby and ask if you could meet with the dentist to see if you can shadow them, or if they have an email you could send your request to. Unfortunately I don't have any experience with this as I shadowed someone I knew, but there are tons of threads on this topic over in the pre-dental forums that you could browse!