Prepare
Know yourself. Explain your unique qualities that make you a good leader. Share your interests, including volunteer experiences or activities that have made you a well-rounded person. Balance honesty with being humble. Remember to mention the mentors who helped you along your way (and share what they taught you). It is likely that the interviewer will ask questions based on your submitted materials, so review them beforehand. Remember what you wrote.
Know why you want to go to dental school, medical school, or your specific program. Be ready to clearly and confidently share why you are pursuing this profession in two to three minutes. Be sincere and passionate.
Interview Tips
Know why UT Health San Antonio is the best place for you. You may need to do some heavy research to feel confident in this answer. If you picked this school because of its well-respected professors, innovative curricula or specialty training, you need to convince the interviewer why this is the place for you.
Know a few key issues in your field. Research and understand what is going on in your future profession. Speak intelligently about new trends and studies.
Know what to bring. Read the American Dental Students Association blog post "9 things to bring on an interview" for a list of interview must-haves you might forget to pack.
Dress to impress. Dress in business professional attire. Men should wear a suit or a coat and tie. Women should wear a suit or skirt and jacket. Be comfortable, though. It can be warm in South Texas, even in what would be the dead of winter in other parts of the United States.
Ask your own questions. Your interview should confirm which school is right for you. Ask questions about the program, the professors, the clinics, the teaching style and the other students to get the complete picture of what dental school is like.
Follow-up. Ask for a business card from everyone. Then send a thank you card or e-mail to each person. Let them know you appreciated the opportunity and ask any follow-up questions.
Potential Interview Questions
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Have you had any experience with dentistry (or medicine)?
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What differentiates you from the rest of the applicants?
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What other schools have you applied to?
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Have you interviewed at any other schools?
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What event has made the biggest impact on your life?
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We noticed you withdrew from a class, why?
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How would you rate your level of hand-eye coordination?
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Do you have any plans after graduation?
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Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
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How do you spend your free time?
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What would you say was the best day or experience you ever had?
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What would you like to improve about yourself?
This content was modified from the American Students Dental Association website.