MockQuestions

University of Colorado Dental School Mock Interview

Question 2 of 40 for our University of Colorado Dental School Mock Interview

University of Colorado was updated by on August 18th, 2022. Learn more here.

Question 2 of 40

What motivated you to pursue a career in dentinstry over another medical field?

"There are many rewarding professions that I could have pursued within the healthcare industry; however, I specifically chose dentistry because I have experienced firsthand how restoring oral health can change a person's life. From a young age, I had significant bite and jaw issues. I suffered for years from headaches, tension, and dizziness. It wasn't until I visited a highly credible dentist that I was told some of my health issues might be due to my poor bite and the tension in my jaw. I was referred to an orthodontist who put me on a 16-month plan that included an oral stent, Invisalign, and therapeutic ultrasound for myofascial pain. I already knew that I wanted to work in the medical industry; however, this experience prompted me to look further into dentistry as a profession. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to learn more about dentistry and help my future patients transform their health."

Next Question

How to Answer: What motivated you to pursue a career in dentinstry over another medical field?

Advice and answer examples written specifically for an University of Colorado Dental School interview.

  • 2. What motivated you to pursue a career in dentinstry over another medical field?

      What You Need to Know

      There are a wide variety of medical fields out there. With so many career options available in the healthcare realm, the interviewers would like to know precisely why you have pursued dentistry. As Denise Kassebaum, DDS, MS, Professor and Dean of the University says, "The School of Dental Medicine believes dental health is critical to overall health, and we are dedicated to integrating dentistry and the other health professions through our innovative educational programs, real-world research, exceptional patient care, and life-changing community outreach initiatives. Believing that there should not be a distinction between dental and systemic health, the SDM emphasizes our intention to integrate 'dental' to improve health." The more specific you can be in your response, the more genuine your reply will feel. Try to align your logic, reasoning, and approach with theirs in identifiable ways to exhibit your research on the college and combed over the site.

      The dean also states, "I'm excited for you to take a look around our site and discover the education, research and clinical programs that are shaping tomorrow's dental workforce, creating new knowledge and providing person-centered care. Whether you are a prospective student with an interest in building your future, a potential faculty or partner who wants to make a difference by working with us, I am confident that after browsing our site, you will discover why the CU SDM is one of the most selective US dental schools and is powering the future of integrated health."

      Written by Kevin Downey on August 18th, 2022

      Answer Example

      "There are many rewarding professions that I could have pursued within the healthcare industry; however, I specifically chose dentistry because I have experienced firsthand how restoring oral health can change a person's life. From a young age, I had significant bite and jaw issues. I suffered for years from headaches, tension, and dizziness. It wasn't until I visited a highly credible dentist that I was told some of my health issues might be due to my poor bite and the tension in my jaw. I was referred to an orthodontist who put me on a 16-month plan that included an oral stent, Invisalign, and therapeutic ultrasound for myofascial pain. I already knew that I wanted to work in the medical industry; however, this experience prompted me to look further into dentistry as a profession. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to learn more about dentistry and help my future patients transform their health."

      Written by Rachelle Enns on August 18th, 2022

      Anonymous Interview Answers with Professional Feedback

      Anonymous Answer

      "As a kid, I struggled with a lack of confidence and was always embarrassed to smile and laugh due to my flared upper front teeth. I have first-hand experience about how improving oral health can change your life altogether. After undergoing orthodontic treatment to correct my maligned teeth I became more confident. This experience drove me to pursue dentistry as a career so that I can make a difference in other people's lives."

      Marcie's Feedback

      This is such a sincere and meaningful story! It will definitely impact the interviewer. It's great that after having experienced this yourself, you are driven to help others in the same way. Awesome!
      Show More Answers

    • Next Question