"First and foremost, I want to be a dentist who takes the time to educate my patients, no matter who there are or where I am working. Regarding a specific population, I would like to spend some time after graduation working in an underserved rural area similar to where I grew up. As a dentist, I will have a powerful opportunity to educate my patients and the public on preventing oral health problems. As a primary healthcare provider, I can provide general nutritional guidance and overall health care advice."

Most likely, there is a specific population that you have considered working with. Perhaps you want to work with the under-served, elderly, pediatric, or non-English speaking people. Or, you may not have a preference and want to work in the community you grew up in. Share your thoughts with the interviewers so they can see what motivates you to pursue a career as a dentist.

"Yes, I am particularly interested in working with pediatric patients. I had a lot of dental work done when I was young after being involved in a terrible vehicle accident. I had many reconstructive surgeries and was impressed by how professional the dental staff was and how they put me at ease. Having first-hand experience as a child allows me the empathy to put myself in my young patients' shoes."