The interviewers want to know if there is any population or demographic you intend to serve as a future dentist. Whether this is the case or not, it is important to understand why they are asking this question. Read the following excerpt from their website;
'The people who comprise NYU Dentistry appreciate and support the importance of a diverse environment in which students, faculty, and staff feel included, valued, and empowered. We recognize that our diverse population comes with unique experiences and different perspectives, which provide us with a valuable opportunity to deliver the best services to our community. We recognize that our individual social, economic, and cultural identities shape and influence our experiences and drive our perspectives. However, it is important to understand that NYU Dentistry will always ensure diversity in our population across the different facets of social, economic, and cultural identity as we embrace and practice inclusivity.'
You might find this question easier to answer if your desire to become a dentist was sparked by personal experience or the realization that everyone deserves access to oral health. If this experience does not describe you, that is okay too! What is important here is that you understand the driving force behind this question and let them know you are aware of their values and priorities, celebrate them, and are open to whatever the future brings. Give a reply from the heart, assuring the interviewers that you are genuinely interested in making a difference.
