How to Answer “Why This Dental School”

Sample Answer to “Why This Dental School?” Interview Question

I’m ambitious. My fascination with technology and design has influenced my academic pursuits and hobbies since high school, where I took every technology and science course available to me, in addition to joining the Coding Club and volunteering as a mathematics tutor. As someone who had a natural aptitude for academics, these extracurriculars taught me the importance of teamwork and compassion for those who are struggling.

During my undergrad, I leveraged my leadership and engagement to apply to a biomedical engineering firm for a two-year internship in software engineering and was accepted. After being involved in several research projects developing model prostheses in miniature, I became fascinated with the small machines we created using digital printing and soon realized that I was very good at manipulating tiny mechanisms with precision in confined spaces. Simultaneously, a discussion with one of my biology professors led to her suggestion that I consider oral and maxillofacial surgery as a profession. She told me that it was rare to come across a student who seemed to possess the “whole package” needed for this exacting specialty, and the notion of pursuing this expertise has intrigued me ever since.

My goal as a student at Boston’s Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine, one of the top academic and urban research institutions in the world, will be to positively influence the course of our profession. With your educational programs as cornerstones, I hope to first build a solid foundation of scientific inquiry and clinical experience, which will be fully encompassed by the Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree. I think I am that highly motivated candidate you seek who wants to contribute to research initiatives as a student. But I am also interested in your advanced programs. For example, you offer the Certificate in Digital Dentistry, which is perfectly aligned with my current research interests.

Although I may have a somewhat unconventional background as an aspiring dentist, and my story may differ from that of a candidate whose interest in dentistry was sparked by the human component, I do recognize that the interpersonal dimension is a key aspect of this profession in the form of patient care. You’ll find that I make a compassionate, communicative dentist, I’m sure. But if I’m honest, I have more experience in problem solving and teamwork. In recent years, my only patients have been little robots. My dream would be to specialize in operative dentistry as a surgeon, but I am convinced that my greatest contribution will ultimately be in design.

Few schools on my list check all the boxes in the way that Boston University does. Most importantly, I know that I will be able to jump into research almost immediately, given the outstanding opportunities available. I can work toward my degree while progressing science and learning the hands-on techniques of dental medicine, with the full support of the school. There is also the option of formally combining a clinical training program with a research program once I have established a clear research direction. For all these reasons, Boston’s Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine is my top choice.

Why This Is a Strong Answer

Dental school interview questions take different forms, and the way you respond depends on the type and purpose of the question. Keeping in mind that your main objective with your “why this dental school?” answer is to show how you align with the school, the following strategies (used in the above example) will be effective.

Captivating Introduction

As with any response to a prompt, whether in the form of a short answer, essay, or interview question, you should start with a hook. In the above example, the candidate immediately grabs your attention with the words, “I’m ambitious.” The conciseness of this statement is almost guaranteed to take the interviewers by surprise, as the topic of the question lends itself to what could otherwise be a stiff, wordy response. Students tend to be naturally intimidated by the idea of telling a school’s representatives what is good about their institution. So, by centering themselves from the get-go, the candidate avoids the usual awkwardness.

States Goals Clearly

The answer lays out the candidate’s long-term objectives and links them to the ways the school can help the student achieve the anticipated outcomes. Although the candidate has an unconventional background, they can clearly show how their education, interests, and employment are perfectly aligned with the dental program to which they are applying.

Shows Real Experience

The candidate provides actual examples of their experiences to connect their dental school ambitions with their previous employment and research experience. If it is an open interview, this will remind the interviewers of what they read in the employment section of the student’s centralized or school-specific application. And if it is a closed interview, this will introduce the interviewers to the candidate personally. The story about how the student’s AutoCAD career led them indirectly to dentistry is unique and intellectually intriguing. Crucially, it sets the candidate apart and will be memorable. Moreover, it highlights their manual dexterity – an essential ability for any dentist and a skill you should draw attention to during the application process. 

Demonstrates Competency for Dental School

Compassion, communication, problem solving, and teamwork are all key qualities of an aspiring dental professional. Moreover, they are among the ADEA’s entry-level competencies.

Demonstrating their knowledge and application of these competencies is another way the candidate in our example signals their readiness for dental school. Note that the student also avoids a potential red flag by being transparent about not having much clinical or patient care experience. Although having dental school extracurriculars is recommended, if it happens that you do not, you should not hide this fact. In the example, the candidate does not have many professional experiences that are related to health care per se, but they manage to highlight skills one might use in dentistry; thus, they ensure that their distinctive background is seen as a feature, not a bug. 

Demonstrates Knowledge of the Dental School

You do not have to flatter the interviewers or tout the merits of the dental program to be effective, if you are applying to one of the best dental schools, they will know how they rank already. In fact, just talking about rankings may have the opposite effect.

When thinking about how to become a dentist, each student will have an idea of the type of campus, field of dentistry, curriculum, faculty, and many other aspects of their education that they might like; all these aspects of a school can be discussed when answering the “why this dental school” question. Becoming a dentist takes a lot of time and effort, and your answer should reflect the research necessary to undertake such a big decision! Ask yourself:

• Why do I want to attend this specific school?
• What do I appreciate about the program and its curriculum?
• What distinguishes this program from that of a different school offering a comparable one?
• Is there a particular degree, program, certificate, department, teaching approach, or research project that makes attending this specific school ideal? 

Then, research the program until you know it inside and out.

In the example, the candidate’s answer brings up a specific certificate the student is interested in, which shows that they did their research. Their answer also includes a nod to the school’s website, where it mentions the desired student profile: “highly motivated applicants who want to contribute to research.” So if your dream school highlights the importance of research, make sure you mention this and emphasize your undergraduate research experience.

Underscores Potential Contributions

Although the student in the example has not decided on a specific path or specialty yet, they nevertheless show that they have central interests and a clear direction. They describe what they will bring to the school, even before starting their formal training.

Finishes Strong

Much like the "why this college" essay, your interview answer should have a beginning, middle, and end. But you do not have to use a formal-sounding conclusion in an interview answer or necessarily refer back to your opening statement. Remember that an interview answer, unless otherwise specified, should not run over 3 minutes: that’s about 400 words or less. So, you should endeavor to say everything you want to in the body of your answer and continue right to the end. Your last sentence can be an open-ended, brief statement that you deliver with a smile. 

Dental school advisors can help you prep for interviews, plus much more!

“Why This Dental School?” Interview Question Sample Answer #2

From a young age, I’ve been captivated by the intersection of art and science, which initially drew me to the world of sculpture and design. As I progressed through my education, this fascination evolved into an interest in dentistry, where I recognized the potential to blend creativity with meticulous scientific precision. During my undergraduate years, I pursued a degree in biology while also taking advanced courses in fine arts, which enhanced my appreciation for detail and form. This unique combination of skills was further developed during my volunteer work at a local dental clinic, where I assisted with patient care and observed the impact of innovative dental techniques on patient outcomes. This experience solidified my decision to pursue a career in dentistry, particularly in the area of prosthodontics, where I can apply both my artistic and scientific interests.

The reason I am particularly drawn to the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine is due to its emphasis on integrating cutting-edge technology with patient-centered care. The school’s strong focus on research, especially in the field of prosthodontics, aligns perfectly with my aspirations. I am especially interested in the advanced prosthodontics program, which provides hands-on experience with the latest digital imaging and fabrication technologies—tools that are essential for creating custom dental solutions. Additionally, the interdisciplinary approach at Penn Dental Medicine, where collaboration across specialties is encouraged, will allow me to refine my skills in a holistic environment that mirrors real-world practice.

Furthermore, the school’s commitment to community service resonates deeply with my values. The opportunity to participate in outreach programs, such as the PennSmiles mobile dental clinic, will enable me to give back to underserved communities while honing my clinical skills. I believe that dental care should be accessible to all, and Penn’s dedication to making this a reality is something I am eager to be a part of.

In conclusion, the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine offers the perfect blend of innovative research, practical experience, and community engagement that aligns with my professional goals. I am confident that this environment will not only help me become a skilled prosthodontist but also allow me to contribute meaningfully to the field of dental medicine.

“Why This Dental School?” Interview Question Sample Answer #3

My journey toward dentistry began during a summer internship at a local dental clinic in Vancouver, where I was deeply inspired by the profound impact dental professionals have on improving patients' quality of life. Witnessing the precision and care required in each procedure, I realized that dentistry perfectly combines my passion for healthcare with my love for hands-on work. During my undergraduate studies in biomedical sciences, I pursued opportunities to volunteer in various community health initiatives, where I provided oral hygiene education to underserved populations. These experiences reinforced my desire to become a dentist who not only excels in clinical skills but also contributes to public health.

The University of Toronto Faculty of Dentistry is my top choice because of its outstanding reputation as Canada’s leading dental school, offering a curriculum that balances cutting-edge research with extensive clinical training. The school’s emphasis on evidence-based dentistry resonates with my commitment to providing high-quality, patient-centered care. I am particularly drawn to the Comprehensive Care Program, where students manage patient cases from diagnosis through treatment, simulating real-world practice in a supportive learning environment. This program will allow me to develop the critical thinking and technical skills necessary to become a competent and confident dentist.

Moreover, the Faculty of Dentistry’s strong focus on research, especially in the areas of oral health and disease prevention, aligns with my interests in contributing to the advancement of dental science. I am excited about the opportunity to participate in the school’s research initiatives, particularly those related to improving dental care for underserved populations, which is a cause close to my heart. The possibility of engaging in community outreach programs, such as the school's involvement in Toronto's dental public health initiatives, will allow me to combine my clinical training with meaningful service to the community.

In summary, the University of Toronto Faculty of Dentistry offers the ideal environment for me to grow as a dental professional. Its integration of comprehensive clinical training, research opportunities, and community service perfectly aligns with my career goals, making it the best place for me to pursue my dental education.

How to Answer the “Why This Dental School?” Question

We have already covered many of the elements you should include in your “why this dental school?” answer by pointing them out in the sample above. But does that really tell you how to answer?

 First, remember these tips for preparing your answer:

1. Research the school you’re applying to/interviewing with. What qualities and experiences do they value most?
2. Based on research, brainstorm stories, aspects of the school, or personal qualities you will highlight in your answer.
3. Use stories and examples to showcase relevant qualities and confidence.
4. Use bullet points to practice. Don’t memorize a script, or you will come off sounding stiff and robotic.
5. Use mock interviews based on the model of mock medical school interviews to practice or invest in some dental school interview prep.
6. Pay attention to tone and pacing. Dentistry is a multifaced career and demonstrating good communication skills will certainly bring you success in your interview. 

In other words, how to answer “why this dental school?” does not mean just listing a series of facts you know about the school or reciting a memorized speech. Although you will want to prepare and rehearse the major parts of your answer by writing down your ideas in bullet-point form, you should seek to remember the content but not the script.

Indeed, the “why this dental school?” question is one you can prepare for, and you can expect some version of it if you make it through to the interview. Not only do you have to come across as sincere, but your answer must have substance and depth. With a strong start, you’ll likely capture and hold your audience’s attention throughout your answer and interview.  

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To your success,

Your friends at BeMo

BeMo Academic Consulting

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