Why should we accept you over another dentistry student with the same qualifications?

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Answer Example
Community Answers

Put yourself in the position of the interviewers. You are looking at multiple talented candidates - all have stellar grades and the potential to be renowned alumni of their university. Your interviewers give you the chance to persuade them that you are the best candidate for their dental school program this upcoming academic year.

This question is your golden opportunity to show why you are the top candidate for this program, so take advantage of the opportunity by pointing out something unique about yourself. Some things to consider discussing that make you a stand-out candidate include your passion for volunteer work, an existing connection to the institution, a skill like being bilingual, or an additional degree you've earned. No matter how you answer, be sure that your answer is memorable.

"I believe I am the strongest student for your dentistry program because I am incredibly dedicated to my professional and personal development. Since beginning my undergraduate program, I have committed to taking a personal development workshop twice per year. The topics have included communication, person-ability, multi-tasking, organization, and even persuasive writing. I plan to take these skills and apply them to my graduate studies and a future as a stellar dentist in practice."

Anonymous Answer

"I bring a unique combination of passion for treating patients who may not have easy access to dental care, mixed with experience in the dental field, as well as being a strong leader. My leadership consists of starting the pre-dental club. I started at my undergraduate university. Working as a dental assistant and dental receptionist for the past year has taught me so much about patient-doctor interactions."

Rachelle's Feedback

It sounds as though you already have some strong experiences in the dental field, which is an excellent way to stand out. It would be wonderful if you could expand just a touch on the pre-dental club that you started. Perhaps mention what the purpose was, how many members you had, and what the club accomplished.

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Anonymous Answer

"My dental experience is different from others. I value the difference in dentistry in the US, China, and other countries. I have an MBA degree. I speak Chinese, Japanese, and English. I always continue to learn the skills which can better myself."

Rachelle's Feedback

You have many unique qualities that make you a stand-out candidate. Very well done! If you wish to strengthen your answer, you could speak further regarding how dentistry differs from country to country.

Anonymous Answer

"I know the applicants out there are great, but I have a lot of experience with low-income and immigrant populations. The accessibility to provide care is a big issue nowadays, and aspiring dentists should address and rectify this issue. Being an immigrant myself and my service experience, I am definitely committed and determined to make dental care more accessible worldwide. I believe I am the person who is going to execute this plan and truly deliver free dental services to those who are in need."

Rachelle's Feedback

You bring up excellent reasons as to why you should be chosen for the dentistry program, and your heart is clearly genuine! I recommend digging even deeper into your 'why' when it comes to your desire to deliver free dental services to underserved communities. What drives you, specifically, and how will you put this plan into motion?

Anonymous Answer

"Becoming a Dentist has been my biggest goal for the past few years. So much, so that I've put everything else in my life on hold, and have put all my focus into fulfilling this goal, that I'm so passionate about. I love caring for others and want to invest in my personal growth so that I can give back to my community. I am extremely dedicated and determined to succeed in this field, through school, and into my career. It means so much to me, and if I were to be accepted into your program, you would see that I take it seriously, and give my all to succeed in dental school."

Jaymie's Feedback

This is a well-written, genuine response. Well done!

Anonymous Answer

"I've worked with a lot of low-income and immigrant populations. Today, accessibility to care is a significant problem and I believe future dentists should address and join hands to resolve this. As an immigrant and with my experience of assisting others, I am strongly committed to ensuring people's access to dental care, especially the underserved."

Marcie's Feedback

Excellent! This aspect of your background definitely differentiates you from other candidates. Consider giving more details about your experience working with these underserved populations. Great response!