How do you build a resume to get into dental school?
Tip 1: First decide why you want to be a dentist, then go find activities and opportunities that support that! For example, if you hope to give back to the field one day by developing or discovering new methods and materials, try your hand at research. But don’t do it just to put it on your application. Engage in activities that are truly aligned with your abilities and interests.
Tip 2: Gaining leadership experience is a good way to stand out from other applicants. It shows that you are actively preparing for the ethical issues that dentists can face as leaders of a dental team. I was on the Executive Boards of clubs and my sorority during undergrad, which gave me a lot to talk about and reference from during interviews.
Tip 3: Start shadowing a general dentist early and record your hours for your application.
Tip 4: Work as a dental assistant, registered dental assistant, or get your dental X-ray license! These are great ways to gain experience in patient care and treatment planning.
Tip 5: Pre-dental programs and seminars: I attended a Summer Program at Columbia University the summer after my freshman year where I was exposed to the manual and technical aspects of dentistry. We spent Fridays in the Simulation Lab and took enrichment classes that would help us with the Dental School Pre-quisites. Some schools have days for Pre-dental students to come and learn during the school year!
Tip 6: Become a member of a student or professional dental organization. It’s a great way to learn more abut dentistry and to meet other with similar interests. A very popular one is ASDA.
Tip 7: It’s important to expose yourself to the public health side of dentistry, whether through observing or volunteering. Look for a free clinic that caters to the underserved population. Seeing how a health fair works and understanding community-based health initiatives will give you valuable knowledge. ADA has a program called Give Kids a Smile Day.
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