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UCSF and Michigan please!
Can You Answer These Questions About Your Dental School? (Part 2)
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Georgia Regents University (GRU) Please!
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It looks like the last Temple reply was done in 2011. Lots of changes have happened since then so I am adding a newer one. Good luck to those of you who are applying!!
Please answer the questions in the following format. Feel free to expand on your response and skip anything you don't want to answer.
1. Name of Your Dental School
Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry (TUKSoD)
2. Your Year (if you're not comfortable answering that, have you taken Part I of the NBDE?)
℅ 2016
3. What is your examination schedule like? Block Schedule (midterms and finals week) or several every week?
Currently (Nov 2013) we do not have block schedule. HOWEVER I have been told by administration that the school is in the process of converting to blocks next year for the ℅ 2018. This is all just in talks so it may not actually happen. I personally think it would be a great change.
4. What is the hardest class? Why?
Hmm. not sure there are lots of hard classes. Dental school is not easy at all. Maybe Pathology and Histology
5. What is the easiest class? Why?
Freshman Periodontology. Not because the material is easy, but because the instructor is very well organized and does a good job at explaining things. He makes it easy to learn.
6. Are class notes based primarily on textbooks? or based on lecture powerpoints made up by professors?
Powerpoints for sure. Freshman year I bought every textbook and regret that so much now. Big waste of money. The teachers will teach you what they want you to know. We have NO time to read all the texts. Also, Temple has an online resource with full-text versions of many of our textbooks.
7. Are traditional (paper) textbooks used or are they electronic? If electronic, do you prefer traditional textbooks?
Temple has an online resource with full-text versions of many of our textbooks. Also there are some texts you should definitely buy for yourself just to have for reference once you are practicing.
8. What is the grading system? Pass/Fail/Honors? Letter Grades? Percentages?
Letter 90=A, 80=B….etc
In some Labs they require you to achieve a 70 minimum on every practical. If you get below 70 on a practical they have a week scheduled into the end of the course where ppl can retake a practical. (this ensures that every student graduates with full competence in every procedure we are taught)
9. Are your classmates generally gunners and try to sabatoge each other? If not, is the culture one where everybody tries to help everybody out?
My class is pretty connected. There are cliques as is expected with every large group but in general everybody gets along well and tries to help each other out. Some ppl post study guides or create helpful flashcards and link them on the classes group page. Each class is different and we are one of the more social classes.
10. Is there a notetaking service for lecture available?
No. Lectures are recorded and you can go back and watch them if you miss a class
11. Is class attendance mandatory?
Yes. this is annoying. Im sure EVERY dental school has boring lecturers and it is sometimes just painful to sit through certain classes. I wish the administration could do more about the quality of interaction in lectures, although I think this is a problem that every school shares (elementary through doctorate).
Since the advent of powerpoints it has become really easy for teachers to just get up there and just "read to you", usually without any enthusiasm or tonation in their voice. Sometimes I wish the would rather hand us a textbook. I usually end up going back and re-watching the lectures in 1.5x or sometimes 2.5x the speed.
12. In general, are teachers approachable for questions? Or are they for the most part very busy and unreachable (research, etc…)?
Generally Yes. We have a few big whigs on the faculty that do a ton of other things (not research, more like a separate gifted program for upperclassmen) which might make it harder for them to give you office hours but there is always assistant professors in cases like that.
13. What is the drop out rate?
Non-existent. You'd have to be crazy to leave an opportunity like this. Compared to what Ive heard from other students at other schools... it doesn't get much better than this. In fact most other dental schools wish they had our resources. The school is new and clean and our patients are overflowing the clinics.
14. Are there any resources to help students who are struggling?
Yes, the school offers free tutoring to students who are struggling. They usually hire an upperclassmen who has previously aced the class to help you.
15. What is the % first time board pass rate? What is the average score (if available)?
This year was a little different. I didn't learn until recently that we do not have strong endo program. I guess the senior class had some people retake the endo part. Although this is the first time I've heard of something like this happening. Im pretty sure the school is going to do something quick to fix it.
When you are pre-dental it is hard to ask the right questions bc you don't really know anything. If you go to schools for interviews ask the 4th years how the boards went and if ppl failed then try to find out what SECTION they failed in.
16. When do you take the NDBE Part 1?
This year (D2) . Temple recently changed policy so that we can choose to take our boards starting Nov of D2 year. This gives us winter break and spring break to study for it. We are required to take them no later than the summer after D2.
17. Does the school offer classes/review sessions to prepare for Part 1?
Definitely not. They do offer an online study packet of old exams though. Our school used to have a student-run website with lots of helpful boards material on it but he was asked to take it down.
18. Do you get a block of time off before boards to study? If so, how long? If not, do you have to study simultaneously with classes?
If we choose to take it in the summer they will give us 1 week off. However, if we choose to take it during winter or Spring you will forfeit that week off.
Which sucks bc I would really like to take my boards early then use that summer study week to take time to see my family. Flights are expensive on spring break and xmas!
19. Do most people study in the University Library? Or does the place clear out right after school and everybody studies on their own?
We have an awesome brand new beautiful med school library down the street where everybody studies. We also have 2 study halls in the dental school which are really convenient to study during the school day when you dont have time to walk to the med school (between classes/between finals).
20. Are patients readily available to fulfill clinical requirements or do you have to do a lot of work to get them in?
We have an overflowing wealth of patients. My other dental friends get jealous. A good analogy would be; Its like living in Dubai when the rest of the world is paying a fortune for oil.
21. Is it a hassle to get a chair once you get patients in? In your opinion, does your school have enough chairs?
No. We have enough chairs. Clinics recently got a makeover and now everything runs smoothly for the most part. I do remember hearing the seniors (before the renovation) complaining about it but since the new changes everybody seems happy.
22. What are the clinical requirements to graduate? (number of crowns, fillings, etc...) Is it reasonably attainable or pretty difficult?
not sure. I don't hear many ppl complaining about it though. I know there are times when ppl will help each other out with requirements if they can.
Also, Ive heard that getting your requirements filled is also based on how much the faculty likes you. For example, if you are Dr. ___'s child, nephew, son-in-law…then you will prob have your requirements completed on time.
23. What types of opportunities do students have to explore different specialties?
not sure about this.
24. Is there sufficent preparation for practice management? What career placement opportunites does your school offer?
Not really. I learn all of my practice mgmt education from other dentists and outside education. Freshman this year got a practice management class but they don't seem happy with it.
25. What is the dress code at your school? Scrubs? For what years?
Scrubs, ceil blue, all years. At least I know I only have to buy scrubs once.
26. Is there much camaraderie between students in the same class? Do students generally associate with each other outside of school?
Yes. My class is very social.
27. What student organizations are most active?
ASDA, Haiti club (intl trip), ZIP (jamaica trip) have the most members. There is a lack of contribution to the local community.
28. What are your opinions on the location of the dental school? Is finding housing an issue? Is safety an issue?
Terrible! North Philadelphia is not a safe place at all. You can find a safe location only 10 minutes away and drive to school or live in the city and take a train.
If you take a train you should try to leave campus before dark to go back to the city (which is safe). If you leave the library late at night you Temple has its own police force that will escort you. The city of philadelphia took some adjusting but after a while you get used to it. Temple police does a great job.
29. What do you not like about your dental school?
Location is a big flaw. I came from a very safe neighborhood with lots of friendly people. I had to adjust to living in a place where I could not go out by myself after dark. Next year I'm going to move to center city which is much more pleasant.
30. Any last words or advice?[/quote]
Temple is known for producing amazing clinicians. Dentists I have shadowed have told me that Temple grads can run circles around other new dentists. Recruiters also love coming to our school and doing lunches or sometimes dinners. Its nice to be regarded in a certain way. Once you say "Temple" they start to act differently. On top of that, all of our facilities are remodeled and spotless.
Also, our school has set up a great system to get feedback from the students. They listen to us and they act quickly. Its just a matter of speaking up.
Please answer the questions in the following format. Feel free to expand on your response and skip anything you don't want to answer.
1. Name of Your Dental School
Temple University Kornberg School of Dentistry (TUKSoD)
2. Your Year (if you're not comfortable answering that, have you taken Part I of the NBDE?)
℅ 2016
3. What is your examination schedule like? Block Schedule (midterms and finals week) or several every week?
Currently (Nov 2013) we do not have block schedule. HOWEVER I have been told by administration that the school is in the process of converting to blocks next year for the ℅ 2018. This is all just in talks so it may not actually happen. I personally think it would be a great change.
4. What is the hardest class? Why?
Hmm. not sure there are lots of hard classes. Dental school is not easy at all. Maybe Pathology and Histology
5. What is the easiest class? Why?
Freshman Periodontology. Not because the material is easy, but because the instructor is very well organized and does a good job at explaining things. He makes it easy to learn.
6. Are class notes based primarily on textbooks? or based on lecture powerpoints made up by professors?
Powerpoints for sure. Freshman year I bought every textbook and regret that so much now. Big waste of money. The teachers will teach you what they want you to know. We have NO time to read all the texts. Also, Temple has an online resource with full-text versions of many of our textbooks.
7. Are traditional (paper) textbooks used or are they electronic? If electronic, do you prefer traditional textbooks?
Temple has an online resource with full-text versions of many of our textbooks. Also there are some texts you should definitely buy for yourself just to have for reference once you are practicing.
8. What is the grading system? Pass/Fail/Honors? Letter Grades? Percentages?
Letter 90=A, 80=B….etc
In some Labs they require you to achieve a 70 minimum on every practical. If you get below 70 on a practical they have a week scheduled into the end of the course where ppl can retake a practical. (this ensures that every student graduates with full competence in every procedure we are taught)
9. Are your classmates generally gunners and try to sabatoge each other? If not, is the culture one where everybody tries to help everybody out?
My class is pretty connected. There are cliques as is expected with every large group but in general everybody gets along well and tries to help each other out. Some ppl post study guides or create helpful flashcards and link them on the classes group page. Each class is different and we are one of the more social classes.
10. Is there a notetaking service for lecture available?
No. Lectures are recorded and you can go back and watch them if you miss a class
11. Is class attendance mandatory?
Yes. this is annoying. Im sure EVERY dental school has boring lecturers and it is sometimes just painful to sit through certain classes. I wish the administration could do more about the quality of interaction in lectures, although I think this is a problem that every school shares (elementary through doctorate).
Since the advent of powerpoints it has become really easy for teachers to just get up there and just "read to you", usually without any enthusiasm or tonation in their voice. Sometimes I wish the would rather hand us a textbook. I usually end up going back and re-watching the lectures in 1.5x or sometimes 2.5x the speed.
12. In general, are teachers approachable for questions? Or are they for the most part very busy and unreachable (research, etc…)?
Generally Yes. We have a few big whigs on the faculty that do a ton of other things (not research, more like a separate gifted program for upperclassmen) which might make it harder for them to give you office hours but there is always assistant professors in cases like that.
13. What is the drop out rate?
Non-existent. You'd have to be crazy to leave an opportunity like this. Compared to what Ive heard from other students at other schools... it doesn't get much better than this. In fact most other dental schools wish they had our resources. The school is new and clean and our patients are overflowing the clinics.
14. Are there any resources to help students who are struggling?
Yes, the school offers free tutoring to students who are struggling. They usually hire an upperclassmen who has previously aced the class to help you.
15. What is the % first time board pass rate? What is the average score (if available)?
This year was a little different. I didn't learn until recently that we do not have strong endo program. I guess the senior class had some people retake the endo part. Although this is the first time I've heard of something like this happening. Im pretty sure the school is going to do something quick to fix it.
When you are pre-dental it is hard to ask the right questions bc you don't really know anything. If you go to schools for interviews ask the 4th years how the boards went and if ppl failed then try to find out what SECTION they failed in.
16. When do you take the NDBE Part 1?
This year (D2) . Temple recently changed policy so that we can choose to take our boards starting Nov of D2 year. This gives us winter break and spring break to study for it. We are required to take them no later than the summer after D2.
17. Does the school offer classes/review sessions to prepare for Part 1?
Definitely not. They do offer an online study packet of old exams though. Our school used to have a student-run website with lots of helpful boards material on it but he was asked to take it down.
18. Do you get a block of time off before boards to study? If so, how long? If not, do you have to study simultaneously with classes?
If we choose to take it in the summer they will give us 1 week off. However, if we choose to take it during winter or Spring you will forfeit that week off.
Which sucks bc I would really like to take my boards early then use that summer study week to take time to see my family. Flights are expensive on spring break and xmas!
19. Do most people study in the University Library? Or does the place clear out right after school and everybody studies on their own?
We have an awesome brand new beautiful med school library down the street where everybody studies. We also have 2 study halls in the dental school which are really convenient to study during the school day when you dont have time to walk to the med school (between classes/between finals).
20. Are patients readily available to fulfill clinical requirements or do you have to do a lot of work to get them in?
We have an overflowing wealth of patients. My other dental friends get jealous. A good analogy would be; Its like living in Dubai when the rest of the world is paying a fortune for oil.
21. Is it a hassle to get a chair once you get patients in? In your opinion, does your school have enough chairs?
No. We have enough chairs. Clinics recently got a makeover and now everything runs smoothly for the most part. I do remember hearing the seniors (before the renovation) complaining about it but since the new changes everybody seems happy.
22. What are the clinical requirements to graduate? (number of crowns, fillings, etc...) Is it reasonably attainable or pretty difficult?
not sure. I don't hear many ppl complaining about it though. I know there are times when ppl will help each other out with requirements if they can.
Also, Ive heard that getting your requirements filled is also based on how much the faculty likes you. For example, if you are Dr. ___'s child, nephew, son-in-law…then you will prob have your requirements completed on time.
23. What types of opportunities do students have to explore different specialties?
not sure about this.
24. Is there sufficent preparation for practice management? What career placement opportunites does your school offer?
Not really. I learn all of my practice mgmt education from other dentists and outside education. Freshman this year got a practice management class but they don't seem happy with it.
25. What is the dress code at your school? Scrubs? For what years?
Scrubs, ceil blue, all years. At least I know I only have to buy scrubs once.
26. Is there much camaraderie between students in the same class? Do students generally associate with each other outside of school?
Yes. My class is very social.
27. What student organizations are most active?
ASDA, Haiti club (intl trip), ZIP (jamaica trip) have the most members. There is a lack of contribution to the local community.
28. What are your opinions on the location of the dental school? Is finding housing an issue? Is safety an issue?
Terrible! North Philadelphia is not a safe place at all. You can find a safe location only 10 minutes away and drive to school or live in the city and take a train.
If you take a train you should try to leave campus before dark to go back to the city (which is safe). If you leave the library late at night you Temple has its own police force that will escort you. The city of philadelphia took some adjusting but after a while you get used to it. Temple police does a great job.
29. What do you not like about your dental school?
Location is a big flaw. I came from a very safe neighborhood with lots of friendly people. I had to adjust to living in a place where I could not go out by myself after dark. Next year I'm going to move to center city which is much more pleasant.
30. Any last words or advice?[/quote]
Temple is known for producing amazing clinicians. Dentists I have shadowed have told me that Temple grads can run circles around other new dentists. Recruiters also love coming to our school and doing lunches or sometimes dinners. Its nice to be regarded in a certain way. Once you say "Temple" they start to act differently. On top of that, all of our facilities are remodeled and spotless.
Also, our school has set up a great system to get feedback from the students. They listen to us and they act quickly. Its just a matter of speaking up.
1. Name of Your Dental School UCLA
2. Your Year (if you're not comfortable answering that, have you taken Part I of the NBDE?) 2nd
3. What is your examination schedule like? Block Schedule (midterms and finals week) or several every week? Opath exam every 2 weeks. Midterms and/or finals depending on class. Quizzes every class for pre-clinical lab courses.
4. What is the hardest class? Why? Micro, removable prosth, dentures
5. What is the easiest class? Why? Depends on what you're good at and what you like.
6. Are class notes based primarily on textbooks? or based on lecture powerpoints made up by professors? Every class is powerpoint. Textbooks are a waste of time
7. Are traditional (paper) textbooks used or are they electronic? If electronic, do you prefer traditional textbooks? N/A
8. What is the grading system? Pass/Fail/Honors? Letter Grades? Percentages?
P/F/H
9. Are your classmates generally gunners and try to sabatoge each other? If not, is the culture one where everybody tries to help everybody out? Everyone is friendly with each other but everyone is also very on top of their studies. Half our class goes on to specialize so it gets intense, but it's never overt or aggressive. To do well here you need to put in the time.
10. Is there a notetaking service for lecture available? No
11. Is class attendance mandatory?Yes, but depending on whether or not there are sign in sheets you can skip
12. In general, are teachers approachable for questions? Or are they for the most part very busy and unreachable (research, etc...)? All profs are approachable
13. What is the drop out rate? none
14. Are there any resources to help students who are struggling? If you fail a course you'll probably be tutored by an upperclassman
15. What is the % first time board pass rate? What is the average score (if available)? Not sure, almost everyone I suspect
16. When do you take the NDBE Part 1? summer of 1st or 2nd yr
17. Does the school offer classes/review sessions to prepare for Part 1? no
18. Do you get a block of time off before boards to study? If so, how long? If not, do you have to study simultaneously with classes? no, typically summer quarter is less intense so that seems to be the most obvious time to take it
19. Do most people study in the University Library? Or does the place clear out right after school and everybody studies on their own? Library. Wherever you can get work done. People who live in LA go home on the weekends too.
20. Are patients readily available to fulfill clinical requirements or do you have to do a lot of work to get them in? If you aren't lazy then you can easily fulfill all your requirements.
21. Is it a hassle to get a chair once you get patients in? In your opinion, does your school have enough chairs? This isn't a problem here
22. What are the clinical requirements to graduate? (number of crowns, fillings, etc...) Is it reasonably attainable or pretty difficult? It can be done, it's not crazy.
23. What types of opportunities do students have to explore different specialties? You can do anything you want if you come here
24. Is there sufficent preparation for practice management? What career placement opportunites does your school offer? I'm not sure about this, sorry.
25. What is the dress code at your school? Scrubs? For what years? Scrubs in clinic otherwise whatever you want.
26. Is there much camaraderie between students in the same class? Do students generally associate with each other outside of school? We're all great friends. My best friends are from my d school.
27. What student organizations are most active?ASDA, DSD, AO, community service
28. What are your opinions on the location of the dental school? Is finding housing an issue? Is safety an issue? Great location, lots of housing. Couldn't be better.
29. What do you not like about your dental school? You're constantly studying, you really have to enjoy bookwork. People who are good at hand skills don't seem to get rewarded 1st or 2nd yrs.
30. Any last words or advice?[/QUOTE]
2. Your Year (if you're not comfortable answering that, have you taken Part I of the NBDE?) 2nd
3. What is your examination schedule like? Block Schedule (midterms and finals week) or several every week? Opath exam every 2 weeks. Midterms and/or finals depending on class. Quizzes every class for pre-clinical lab courses.
4. What is the hardest class? Why? Micro, removable prosth, dentures
5. What is the easiest class? Why? Depends on what you're good at and what you like.
6. Are class notes based primarily on textbooks? or based on lecture powerpoints made up by professors? Every class is powerpoint. Textbooks are a waste of time
7. Are traditional (paper) textbooks used or are they electronic? If electronic, do you prefer traditional textbooks? N/A
8. What is the grading system? Pass/Fail/Honors? Letter Grades? Percentages?
P/F/H
9. Are your classmates generally gunners and try to sabatoge each other? If not, is the culture one where everybody tries to help everybody out? Everyone is friendly with each other but everyone is also very on top of their studies. Half our class goes on to specialize so it gets intense, but it's never overt or aggressive. To do well here you need to put in the time.
10. Is there a notetaking service for lecture available? No
11. Is class attendance mandatory?Yes, but depending on whether or not there are sign in sheets you can skip
12. In general, are teachers approachable for questions? Or are they for the most part very busy and unreachable (research, etc...)? All profs are approachable
13. What is the drop out rate? none
14. Are there any resources to help students who are struggling? If you fail a course you'll probably be tutored by an upperclassman
15. What is the % first time board pass rate? What is the average score (if available)? Not sure, almost everyone I suspect
16. When do you take the NDBE Part 1? summer of 1st or 2nd yr
17. Does the school offer classes/review sessions to prepare for Part 1? no
18. Do you get a block of time off before boards to study? If so, how long? If not, do you have to study simultaneously with classes? no, typically summer quarter is less intense so that seems to be the most obvious time to take it
19. Do most people study in the University Library? Or does the place clear out right after school and everybody studies on their own? Library. Wherever you can get work done. People who live in LA go home on the weekends too.
20. Are patients readily available to fulfill clinical requirements or do you have to do a lot of work to get them in? If you aren't lazy then you can easily fulfill all your requirements.
21. Is it a hassle to get a chair once you get patients in? In your opinion, does your school have enough chairs? This isn't a problem here
22. What are the clinical requirements to graduate? (number of crowns, fillings, etc...) Is it reasonably attainable or pretty difficult? It can be done, it's not crazy.
23. What types of opportunities do students have to explore different specialties? You can do anything you want if you come here
24. Is there sufficent preparation for practice management? What career placement opportunites does your school offer? I'm not sure about this, sorry.
25. What is the dress code at your school? Scrubs? For what years? Scrubs in clinic otherwise whatever you want.
26. Is there much camaraderie between students in the same class? Do students generally associate with each other outside of school? We're all great friends. My best friends are from my d school.
27. What student organizations are most active?ASDA, DSD, AO, community service
28. What are your opinions on the location of the dental school? Is finding housing an issue? Is safety an issue? Great location, lots of housing. Couldn't be better.
29. What do you not like about your dental school? You're constantly studying, you really have to enjoy bookwork. People who are good at hand skills don't seem to get rewarded 1st or 2nd yrs.
30. Any last words or advice?[/QUOTE]
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- Oct 2, 2012
- Messages
- 52
- Reaction score
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Can any D4's at Western U in Pomona please provide an update, especially for Questions 20-24 & 29. Much appreciated.
I have a question to the person who wrote here, how can I contact the person?
Loma Linda University School of Dentistry
2. Your Year (if you're not comfortable answering that, have you taken Part I of the NBDE?)
D1
3. What is your examination schedule like? Block Schedule (midterms and finals week) or several every week?
Midterms and Finals only
4. What is the hardest class? Why?
Anatomy-we do a combination of embryo, histo, gross, head/neck gross, and neuro-it's just a TON of information, as others have already stated
5. What is the easiest class? Why?
Probably our ethics/religion classes
6. Are class notes based primarily on textbooks? or based on lecture powerpoints made up by professors?
About 95% powerpoints
7. Are traditional (paper) textbooks used or are they electronic? If electronic, do you prefer traditional textbooks?
Certain texts are recommended for classes, but there isn't any need to purchase them unless you enjoy reading that sort of stuff in your own time
8. What is the grading system? Pass/Fail/Honors? Letter Grades? Percentages?
Some P/F, mostly these are intro courses...for the majority of classes they give letter grades
9. Are your classmates generally gunners and try to sabatoge each other? If not, is the culture one where everybody tries to help everybody out?
Generally everyone works together and it functions pretty nice, although I'm sure we had some rotten apples somewhere in the pile, but I have yet to notice it.
10. Is there a notetaking service for lecture available?
We have a tech rep that records all the lectures and labs, which is quite helpful at times
11. Is class attendance mandatory?
Technically, yes...but sometimes our restorative labs are so crowded we choose to just come in on our own time because what would take 3 hours with everyone in the lab (crowding sinks, model trimmers. etc..will take about 30 minutes if you come in on your own time when no one is there.
12. In general, are teachers approachable for questions? Or are they for the most part very busy and unreachable (research, etc...)?
All of my professors thus far have been more than helpful, they all try really hard to help us as much as possible
13. What is the drop out rate?
We had one student to drop at the beginning due to personal issues, but so far we have kept the herd intact for the most part
14. Are there any resources to help students who are struggling?
Yes, but there isn't much people can do...everyone wants to help but outside of advice on how to study...there's not much one can offer. The biggest adjustment for me in dental school has BY FAR been learning HOW to study efficiently. If you don't know your study style before you start, you better find out now, once that fire hydrant starts gushing, it's hard to find your way if you start out lost
15. What is the % first time board pass rate? What is the average score (if available)?
This is one thing I'm not too sure about, but I think our pass rate for Part II is much higher than Part I (not that part I is low). Our school thrives on a top-notch clinical program and they put us through the wringer in the clinic...so by the time we take Part II, we are pretty much ready. I think the general consensus is we have an annual pass rate of ~98% for Part 2 and ~95% for Part I
16. When do you take the NDBE Part 1?
After the D2 summer qtr
17. Does the school offer classes/review sessions to prepare for Part 1?
Yes, we take a class for a full qtr on reviewing for Part I
18. Do you get a block of time off before boards to study? If so, how long? If not, do you have to study simultaneously with classes?
We get ~ 3-4 weeks to study for Part I boards
19. Do most people study in the University Library? Or does the place clear out right after school and everybody studies on their own?
Lots of people study in the library in groups. It's pretty interesting to see how quickly people find their niche...everyone has a different style of learning so its' key to find which yours' is
20. Are patients readily available to fulfill clinical requirements or do you have to do a lot of work to get them in?
From what I hear, we have patients on a six month+ waiting list. Our problem is more of affordability and finding someone who needs exactly what your reqs for graduation demand
21. Is it a hassle to get a chair once you get patients in? In your opinion, does your school have enough chairs?
Not sure
22. What are the clinical requirements to graduate? (number of crowns, fillings, etc...) Is it reasonably attainable or pretty difficult?
Not sure exactly, I know we have a LOT though...a lot of the current D4s are thinking they may have to stay an extra qtr to fulfill their grad requirements
23. What types of opportunities do students have to explore different specialties?
I guess a lot, we have all the specialties at our school and they all seem to work well in coordination with one another
24. Is there sufficent preparation for practice management? What career placement opportunites does your school offer?
In my opinion, no. Schools should make this an emphasis, because as much as students are paying to get educated, they need to be able to thrive in the "real world"
25. What is the dress code at your school? Scrubs? For what years?
For men-slacks and dress shirt with a tie OR Navy/Ciel scrubs
For ladies-professional skirts OR scrubs
26. Is there much camaraderie between students in the same class? Do students generally associate with each other outside of school?
I think so, I'm married so I don't really get the chance to "hang out" with people outside of school. But from what I can tell, we all tend to get along very well.
27. What student organizations are most active?
We have lots-ADA, ASDA, CDA, etc...
28. What are your opinions on the location of the dental school? Is finding housing an issue? Is safety an issue?
Housing is a nice surprise, rent in this part of CA is comparatively cheap when you see how much rent is in other parts of the state. LL is definitely a safe town in my opinion
29. What do you not like about your dental school?
My main complaint is that the people who make our schedules have not gone through dental school, therefore, they don't know what's doable and what's not. For example, we have midterms this week and they piled lots of other non-necessary required class attendance on us, limiting our study time. Also, we have a couple of professors who go out of their way to trick people on exams, but I guess that's to be expected in professional school...but overall I am very happy I chose LLUSD and wouldn't want to go to any other dental school.
30. Any last words or advice?
Again, learn how to study before you get here! You will be astonished how fast information will pile up on you. When you only have midterms/finals...it's very easy to slack off because you're not accountable. It's up to you to hold yourself accountable and put in the required amount of study time you need each night, it differs for everyone. I study ~4 hours per day and when midterms/finals come it doubles starting two weeks out. Also, try to keep your expectations of yourself realistic...don't be upset if you get a B, you will be attending classes with some of the most brilliant people you'll ever meet. Good luck!!![/quote]
Loma Linda University School of Dentistry
2. Your Year (if you're not comfortable answering that, have you taken Part I of the NBDE?)
D1
3. What is your examination schedule like? Block Schedule (midterms and finals week) or several every week?
Midterms and Finals only
4. What is the hardest class? Why?
Anatomy-we do a combination of embryo, histo, gross, head/neck gross, and neuro-it's just a TON of information, as others have already stated
5. What is the easiest class? Why?
Probably our ethics/religion classes
6. Are class notes based primarily on textbooks? or based on lecture powerpoints made up by professors?
About 95% powerpoints
7. Are traditional (paper) textbooks used or are they electronic? If electronic, do you prefer traditional textbooks?
Certain texts are recommended for classes, but there isn't any need to purchase them unless you enjoy reading that sort of stuff in your own time
8. What is the grading system? Pass/Fail/Honors? Letter Grades? Percentages?
Some P/F, mostly these are intro courses...for the majority of classes they give letter grades
9. Are your classmates generally gunners and try to sabatoge each other? If not, is the culture one where everybody tries to help everybody out?
Generally everyone works together and it functions pretty nice, although I'm sure we had some rotten apples somewhere in the pile, but I have yet to notice it.
10. Is there a notetaking service for lecture available?
We have a tech rep that records all the lectures and labs, which is quite helpful at times
11. Is class attendance mandatory?
Technically, yes...but sometimes our restorative labs are so crowded we choose to just come in on our own time because what would take 3 hours with everyone in the lab (crowding sinks, model trimmers. etc..will take about 30 minutes if you come in on your own time when no one is there.
12. In general, are teachers approachable for questions? Or are they for the most part very busy and unreachable (research, etc...)?
All of my professors thus far have been more than helpful, they all try really hard to help us as much as possible
13. What is the drop out rate?
We had one student to drop at the beginning due to personal issues, but so far we have kept the herd intact for the most part
14. Are there any resources to help students who are struggling?
Yes, but there isn't much people can do...everyone wants to help but outside of advice on how to study...there's not much one can offer. The biggest adjustment for me in dental school has BY FAR been learning HOW to study efficiently. If you don't know your study style before you start, you better find out now, once that fire hydrant starts gushing, it's hard to find your way if you start out lost
15. What is the % first time board pass rate? What is the average score (if available)?
This is one thing I'm not too sure about, but I think our pass rate for Part II is much higher than Part I (not that part I is low). Our school thrives on a top-notch clinical program and they put us through the wringer in the clinic...so by the time we take Part II, we are pretty much ready. I think the general consensus is we have an annual pass rate of ~98% for Part 2 and ~95% for Part I
16. When do you take the NDBE Part 1?
After the D2 summer qtr
17. Does the school offer classes/review sessions to prepare for Part 1?
Yes, we take a class for a full qtr on reviewing for Part I
18. Do you get a block of time off before boards to study? If so, how long? If not, do you have to study simultaneously with classes?
We get ~ 3-4 weeks to study for Part I boards
19. Do most people study in the University Library? Or does the place clear out right after school and everybody studies on their own?
Lots of people study in the library in groups. It's pretty interesting to see how quickly people find their niche...everyone has a different style of learning so its' key to find which yours' is
20. Are patients readily available to fulfill clinical requirements or do you have to do a lot of work to get them in?
From what I hear, we have patients on a six month+ waiting list. Our problem is more of affordability and finding someone who needs exactly what your reqs for graduation demand
21. Is it a hassle to get a chair once you get patients in? In your opinion, does your school have enough chairs?
Not sure
22. What are the clinical requirements to graduate? (number of crowns, fillings, etc...) Is it reasonably attainable or pretty difficult?
Not sure exactly, I know we have a LOT though...a lot of the current D4s are thinking they may have to stay an extra qtr to fulfill their grad requirements
23. What types of opportunities do students have to explore different specialties?
I guess a lot, we have all the specialties at our school and they all seem to work well in coordination with one another
24. Is there sufficent preparation for practice management? What career placement opportunites does your school offer?
In my opinion, no. Schools should make this an emphasis, because as much as students are paying to get educated, they need to be able to thrive in the "real world"
25. What is the dress code at your school? Scrubs? For what years?
For men-slacks and dress shirt with a tie OR Navy/Ciel scrubs
For ladies-professional skirts OR scrubs
26. Is there much camaraderie between students in the same class? Do students generally associate with each other outside of school?
I think so, I'm married so I don't really get the chance to "hang out" with people outside of school. But from what I can tell, we all tend to get along very well.
27. What student organizations are most active?
We have lots-ADA, ASDA, CDA, etc...
28. What are your opinions on the location of the dental school? Is finding housing an issue? Is safety an issue?
Housing is a nice surprise, rent in this part of CA is comparatively cheap when you see how much rent is in other parts of the state. LL is definitely a safe town in my opinion
29. What do you not like about your dental school?
My main complaint is that the people who make our schedules have not gone through dental school, therefore, they don't know what's doable and what's not. For example, we have midterms this week and they piled lots of other non-necessary required class attendance on us, limiting our study time. Also, we have a couple of professors who go out of their way to trick people on exams, but I guess that's to be expected in professional school...but overall I am very happy I chose LLUSD and wouldn't want to go to any other dental school.
30. Any last words or advice?
Again, learn how to study before you get here! You will be astonished how fast information will pile up on you. When you only have midterms/finals...it's very easy to slack off because you're not accountable. It's up to you to hold yourself accountable and put in the required amount of study time you need each night, it differs for everyone. I study ~4 hours per day and when midterms/finals come it doubles starting two weeks out. Also, try to keep your expectations of yourself realistic...don't be upset if you get a B, you will be attending classes with some of the most brilliant people you'll ever meet. Good luck!!![/quote]
- Joined
- Jan 1, 2014
- Messages
- 4
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- 0
I have no answer for this post. I don't know about it. Thanks a lot.
- Joined
- Jun 6, 2011
- Messages
- 57
- Reaction score
- 5
1. Name of Your Dental School: Georgia Regents University CODM (Formerly Medical College of Georgia)
2. Your Year (if you're not comfortable answering that, have you taken Part I of the NBDE?) 3, Yes
3. What is your examination schedule like? Block Schedule (midterms and finals week) or several every week? Exams throughout semester with finals week at end. Much like undergrad.
4. What is the hardest class? Why? Microbiology with Volkmann (who has now retired)
5. What is the easiest class? Why? Physiology with Abebe
6. Are class notes based primarily on textbooks? or based on lecture powerpoints made up by professors? All powerpoints
7. Are traditional (paper) textbooks used or are they electronic? If electronic, do you prefer traditional textbooks? Electronic is available (not necessary ever)
8. What is the grading system? Pass/Fail/Honors? Letter Grades? Percentages? Letter Grades
9. Are your classmates generally gunners and try to sabatoge each other? If not, is the culture one where everybody tries to help everybody out? There are some of both
10. Is there a notetaking service for lecture available? Nothing is setup through the school. Usually someone steps up and gets paid to do it. We have a generous classmate who does it for free.
11. Is class attendance mandatory? Clinic always. Most classes have sign in sheets. Not sure if they ever even look at them though.
12. In general, are teachers approachable for questions? Or are they for the most part very busy and unreachable (research, etc...)? Most teachers are approachable
13. What is the drop out rate? Very low. A few get held back in the first year or two but they are allowed to repeat that year.
14. Are there any resources to help students who are struggling? To my understanding help if available if you ask for it.
15. What is the % first time board pass rate? What is the average score (if available)? Idk, I hear it is quite high. Pass/faill now no score.
16. When do you take the NDBE Part 1? After summer semester at beginning of year 3. (Early August)
17. Does the school offer classes/review sessions to prepare for Part 1? There is a boards review class all summer leading up to the test.
18. Do you get a block of time off before boards to study? If so, how long? If not, do you have to study simultaneously with classes? You have to study alongside school and clinic. 3rd year summer is tough. You get two weeks off to study for boards but most take it at the end of the first week.
19. Do most people study in the University Library? Or does the place clear out right after school and everybody studies on their own? Everyone does something different. Some love the library. Some stay home. Some do coffee shops.
20. Are patients readily available to fulfill clinical requirements or do you have to do a lot of work to get them in? Patients are readily available. Some are better than others. You do your own scheduling so it is up to you to make sure they arrive for clinic.
21. Is it a hassle to get a chair once you get patients in? In your opinion, does your school have enough chairs? It can sometimes be a hassle but almost always it works out to get the chair you want if you really need it.
Bus
22. What are the clinical requirements to graduate? (number of crowns, fillings, etc...) Is it reasonably attainable or pretty difficult? Still in 3rd year but from what I hear if you are on top of you stuff it is reasonably attainable.
23. What types of opportunities do students have to explore different specialties? You are welcome to go shadow any specialty at any time.
24. Is there sufficent preparation for practice management? What career placement opportunites does your school offer?
25. What is the dress code at your school? Scrubs? For what years? Business casual or scrubs.
26. Is there much camaraderie between students in the same class? Do students generally associate with each other outside of school? Or course. Like every school I'm sure. Like minded people always tend to come together.
27. What student organizations are most active? ASDA is quite strong at GRU.
28. What are your opinions on the location of the dental school? Is finding housing an issue? Is safety an issue? The location is alright. Augusta isn't that great of a city but it has cheap rent. Safety isn't an issue but there are certainly many areas you wouldn't want to wander around at night. Finding housing is not a issue at all.
29. What do you not like about your dental school? Same thing with every school I'm sure. There are some professors/teaching dentists that are awesome to work with and are very helpful. There are also some that you avoid like the plague. Our school is also backwards in it's decent amount of it's teaching. It is frustrating hearing private practice dentists say you will never do half the stuff we are doing on a daily basis here. However; I'm sure that is like most dental schools.
30. Any last words or advice? Some of the cheapest dental education around. Augusta isn't terrible. If you get in and are in state you would be a fool to go anywhere else. It's stressful and trying at times but overall it's not too bad and in 4 short years you will be a DMD.
2. Your Year (if you're not comfortable answering that, have you taken Part I of the NBDE?) 3, Yes
3. What is your examination schedule like? Block Schedule (midterms and finals week) or several every week? Exams throughout semester with finals week at end. Much like undergrad.
4. What is the hardest class? Why? Microbiology with Volkmann (who has now retired)
5. What is the easiest class? Why? Physiology with Abebe
6. Are class notes based primarily on textbooks? or based on lecture powerpoints made up by professors? All powerpoints
7. Are traditional (paper) textbooks used or are they electronic? If electronic, do you prefer traditional textbooks? Electronic is available (not necessary ever)
8. What is the grading system? Pass/Fail/Honors? Letter Grades? Percentages? Letter Grades
9. Are your classmates generally gunners and try to sabatoge each other? If not, is the culture one where everybody tries to help everybody out? There are some of both
10. Is there a notetaking service for lecture available? Nothing is setup through the school. Usually someone steps up and gets paid to do it. We have a generous classmate who does it for free.
11. Is class attendance mandatory? Clinic always. Most classes have sign in sheets. Not sure if they ever even look at them though.
12. In general, are teachers approachable for questions? Or are they for the most part very busy and unreachable (research, etc...)? Most teachers are approachable
13. What is the drop out rate? Very low. A few get held back in the first year or two but they are allowed to repeat that year.
14. Are there any resources to help students who are struggling? To my understanding help if available if you ask for it.
15. What is the % first time board pass rate? What is the average score (if available)? Idk, I hear it is quite high. Pass/faill now no score.
16. When do you take the NDBE Part 1? After summer semester at beginning of year 3. (Early August)
17. Does the school offer classes/review sessions to prepare for Part 1? There is a boards review class all summer leading up to the test.
18. Do you get a block of time off before boards to study? If so, how long? If not, do you have to study simultaneously with classes? You have to study alongside school and clinic. 3rd year summer is tough. You get two weeks off to study for boards but most take it at the end of the first week.
19. Do most people study in the University Library? Or does the place clear out right after school and everybody studies on their own? Everyone does something different. Some love the library. Some stay home. Some do coffee shops.
20. Are patients readily available to fulfill clinical requirements or do you have to do a lot of work to get them in? Patients are readily available. Some are better than others. You do your own scheduling so it is up to you to make sure they arrive for clinic.
21. Is it a hassle to get a chair once you get patients in? In your opinion, does your school have enough chairs? It can sometimes be a hassle but almost always it works out to get the chair you want if you really need it.
Bus
22. What are the clinical requirements to graduate? (number of crowns, fillings, etc...) Is it reasonably attainable or pretty difficult? Still in 3rd year but from what I hear if you are on top of you stuff it is reasonably attainable.
23. What types of opportunities do students have to explore different specialties? You are welcome to go shadow any specialty at any time.
24. Is there sufficent preparation for practice management? What career placement opportunites does your school offer?
25. What is the dress code at your school? Scrubs? For what years? Business casual or scrubs.
26. Is there much camaraderie between students in the same class? Do students generally associate with each other outside of school? Or course. Like every school I'm sure. Like minded people always tend to come together.
27. What student organizations are most active? ASDA is quite strong at GRU.
28. What are your opinions on the location of the dental school? Is finding housing an issue? Is safety an issue? The location is alright. Augusta isn't that great of a city but it has cheap rent. Safety isn't an issue but there are certainly many areas you wouldn't want to wander around at night. Finding housing is not a issue at all.
29. What do you not like about your dental school? Same thing with every school I'm sure. There are some professors/teaching dentists that are awesome to work with and are very helpful. There are also some that you avoid like the plague. Our school is also backwards in it's decent amount of it's teaching. It is frustrating hearing private practice dentists say you will never do half the stuff we are doing on a daily basis here. However; I'm sure that is like most dental schools.
30. Any last words or advice? Some of the cheapest dental education around. Augusta isn't terrible. If you get in and are in state you would be a fool to go anywhere else. It's stressful and trying at times but overall it's not too bad and in 4 short years you will be a DMD.
- Joined
- Jun 15, 2011
- Messages
- 136
- Reaction score
- 4
1. Name of Your Dental School: Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine
2. Your Year (if you're not comfortable answering that, have you taken Part I of the NBDE?): 2017; yes.
3. What is your examination schedule like? Block Schedule (midterms and finals week) or several every week? Several every week.
4. What is the hardest class? Why? For 1st year it's either physio or gross. Physio is considered difficult because it requires more than just rote memorization (more application of knowledge), and gross is difficult because of the sheer amount of content, especially head and neck. But all the professors are really great, and so if you work hard enough, you should be fine.
5. What is the easiest class? Why? Biomaterials. Only 4 lectures and 1 test (worth 100% of your grade). That class doesn't have a lot of content.
6. Are class notes based primarily on textbooks? or based on lecture powerpoints made up by professors? Powerpoints. They want us to use books, but they're not really necessary. Plus, it's more efficient to just study the powerpoints because the tests are based on the powerpoints anyways, and so anything else is extraneous.
7. Are traditional (paper) textbooks used or are they electronic? If electronic, do you prefer traditional textbooks? N/A, since I don't use textbooks.
8. What is the grading system? Pass/Fail/Honors? Letter Grades? Percentages? Letter grades +/-.
9. Are your classmates generally gunners and try to sabatoge each other? If not, is the culture one where everybody tries to help everybody out? Maybe a few gunners, but overall everyone helps each other out.
10. Is there a notetaking service for lecture available? I don't think so. Not really sure.
11. Is class attendance mandatory? No. I wouldn't want it to be mandatory anyways.
12. In general, are teachers approachable for questions? Or are they for the most part very busy and unreachable (research, etc...)? Very approachable.
13. What is the drop out rate? Don't know exactly. Usually a few every year.
14. Are there any resources to help students who are struggling? I think if you fail a test, you are automatically assigned a tutor.
15. What is the % first time board pass rate? What is the average score (if available)? They don't release it, but most people I know passed. I think the school prepares you well for the boards.
16. When do you take the NDBE Part 1? Summer between 1st and 2nd year, but we're really supposed to take it winter of 2nd year, which doesn't really make sense since all of the courses related to Part 1 is taught in 1st year. They should make the student take it during the summer of 1st and 2nd year because that's when the content is fresh. And honestly, the boards is just memorization, and so the fresher the material, the better.
17. Does the school offer classes/review sessions to prepare for Part 1? I don't think so. I doubt I would find review sessions useful.
18. Do you get a block of time off before boards to study? If so, how long? If not, do you have to study simultaneously with classes? Yes. First semester of 2nd year is pretty lax (almost every Fridays off), and you get 5 weeks off for 2nd year winter break.
19. Do most people study in the University Library? Or does the place clear out right after school and everybody studies on their own? Library or in cafes or in their homes.
20. Are patients readily available to fulfill clinical requirements or do you have to do a lot of work to get them in? Don't know yet. Sorry, haven't reached clinics. Just finished 1st year.
21. Is it a hassle to get a chair once you get patients in? In your opinion, does your school have enough chairs? Don't know yet.
22. What are the clinical requirements to graduate? (number of crowns, fillings, etc...) Is it reasonably attainable or pretty difficult? Don't know yet.
23. What types of opportunities do students have to explore different specialties? Don't know yet. You can probably go and shadow different specialities in the school though.
24. Is there sufficient preparation for practice management? What career placement opportunities does your school offer? Don't know yet.
25. What is the dress code at your school? Scrubs? For what years? Scrubs in clinics. Otherwise, you can wear whatever you want.
26. Is there much camaraderie between students in the same class? Do students generally associate with each other outside of school? Yes, everyone is friendly.
27. What student organizations are most active? SNDA, ASDA.
28. What are your opinions on the location of the dental school? Is finding housing an issue? Is safety an issue? South End is ... not exactly safe. I live a bit farther off and took the free BU shuttle.
29. What do you not like about your dental school? Location. Boston's great. South End ... not so much.
30. Any last words or advice? I really like school. As long as you put in the effort, you'll be fine.
2. Your Year (if you're not comfortable answering that, have you taken Part I of the NBDE?): 2017; yes.
3. What is your examination schedule like? Block Schedule (midterms and finals week) or several every week? Several every week.
4. What is the hardest class? Why? For 1st year it's either physio or gross. Physio is considered difficult because it requires more than just rote memorization (more application of knowledge), and gross is difficult because of the sheer amount of content, especially head and neck. But all the professors are really great, and so if you work hard enough, you should be fine.
5. What is the easiest class? Why? Biomaterials. Only 4 lectures and 1 test (worth 100% of your grade). That class doesn't have a lot of content.
6. Are class notes based primarily on textbooks? or based on lecture powerpoints made up by professors? Powerpoints. They want us to use books, but they're not really necessary. Plus, it's more efficient to just study the powerpoints because the tests are based on the powerpoints anyways, and so anything else is extraneous.
7. Are traditional (paper) textbooks used or are they electronic? If electronic, do you prefer traditional textbooks? N/A, since I don't use textbooks.
8. What is the grading system? Pass/Fail/Honors? Letter Grades? Percentages? Letter grades +/-.
9. Are your classmates generally gunners and try to sabatoge each other? If not, is the culture one where everybody tries to help everybody out? Maybe a few gunners, but overall everyone helps each other out.
10. Is there a notetaking service for lecture available? I don't think so. Not really sure.
11. Is class attendance mandatory? No. I wouldn't want it to be mandatory anyways.
12. In general, are teachers approachable for questions? Or are they for the most part very busy and unreachable (research, etc...)? Very approachable.
13. What is the drop out rate? Don't know exactly. Usually a few every year.
14. Are there any resources to help students who are struggling? I think if you fail a test, you are automatically assigned a tutor.
15. What is the % first time board pass rate? What is the average score (if available)? They don't release it, but most people I know passed. I think the school prepares you well for the boards.
16. When do you take the NDBE Part 1? Summer between 1st and 2nd year, but we're really supposed to take it winter of 2nd year, which doesn't really make sense since all of the courses related to Part 1 is taught in 1st year. They should make the student take it during the summer of 1st and 2nd year because that's when the content is fresh. And honestly, the boards is just memorization, and so the fresher the material, the better.
17. Does the school offer classes/review sessions to prepare for Part 1? I don't think so. I doubt I would find review sessions useful.
18. Do you get a block of time off before boards to study? If so, how long? If not, do you have to study simultaneously with classes? Yes. First semester of 2nd year is pretty lax (almost every Fridays off), and you get 5 weeks off for 2nd year winter break.
19. Do most people study in the University Library? Or does the place clear out right after school and everybody studies on their own? Library or in cafes or in their homes.
20. Are patients readily available to fulfill clinical requirements or do you have to do a lot of work to get them in? Don't know yet. Sorry, haven't reached clinics. Just finished 1st year.
21. Is it a hassle to get a chair once you get patients in? In your opinion, does your school have enough chairs? Don't know yet.
22. What are the clinical requirements to graduate? (number of crowns, fillings, etc...) Is it reasonably attainable or pretty difficult? Don't know yet.
23. What types of opportunities do students have to explore different specialties? Don't know yet. You can probably go and shadow different specialities in the school though.
24. Is there sufficient preparation for practice management? What career placement opportunities does your school offer? Don't know yet.
25. What is the dress code at your school? Scrubs? For what years? Scrubs in clinics. Otherwise, you can wear whatever you want.
26. Is there much camaraderie between students in the same class? Do students generally associate with each other outside of school? Yes, everyone is friendly.
27. What student organizations are most active? SNDA, ASDA.
28. What are your opinions on the location of the dental school? Is finding housing an issue? Is safety an issue? South End is ... not exactly safe. I live a bit farther off and took the free BU shuttle.
29. What do you not like about your dental school? Location. Boston's great. South End ... not so much.
30. Any last words or advice? I really like school. As long as you put in the effort, you'll be fine.
- Joined
- Jun 20, 2012
- Messages
- 542
- Reaction score
- 590
I removed a few questions I couldn't answer.
1. Name of Your Dental School
Louisiana State University
2. Your Year (if you're not comfortable answering that, have you taken Part I of the NBDE?)
D1
3. What is your examination schedule like? Block Schedule (midterms and finals week) or several every week?
About 1-3 tests per week in different classes. Each class has an exam about every 3 or 4 weeks.
4. What is the hardest class? Why?
Morphology. Because several people grade different aspects of wax-ups, meaning they will each grade differently and inconsistently. Wax-ups better than mine are getting 30 points less than mine.
5. What is the easiest class? Why?
Professional development. Guest lecturers every week! No exams!
6. Are class notes based primarily on textbooks? or based on lecture powerpoints made up by professors?
Lecture powerpoints.
7. Are traditional (paper) textbooks used or are they electronic? If electronic, do you prefer traditional textbooks?
Electronic textbooks, though I MUCH prefer traditional textbooks.
8. What is the grading system? Pass/Fail/Honors? Letter Grades? Percentages?
Some classes are A, B, C, F. Others are Pass/fail.
9. Are your classmates generally gunners and try to sabatoge each other? If not, is the culture one where everybody tries to help everybody out?
Nobody tries to sabatoge one another. Everyone helps each other out by sharing study resources, study guides, etc.
10. Is there a notetaking service for lecture available?
Not that I am aware of, though students are always willing to share notes upon request.
11. Is class attendance mandatory?
We can miss up to 20% of the class, I believe. So for a class with 100+ hours (like Gross), we can miss several days of class, whereas shorter classes (like radiology) can be missed only once or twice.
12. In general, are teachers approachable for questions? Or are they for the most part very busy and unreachable (research, etc...)?
Very approachable. No teachers seem too intimidating or cold to help out students. Even if the teachers work in the downtown medical school (a few minutes away from the dental school), they are easy to reach by phone.
13. What is the drop out rate?
Almost 0%. I know of nobody dropping out intentionally.
14. Are there any resources to help students who are struggling?
There are tutoring and stress management resources.
15. What is the % first time board pass rate? What is the average score (if available)?
I am not sure yet, but I have not heard of anybody failing it yet.
16. When do you take the NDBE Part 1?
Before D3. I will probably take it after D1 or halfway through D2.
17. Does the school offer classes/review sessions to prepare for Part 1?
I don't believe so.
18. Do you get a block of time off before boards to study? If so, how long? If not, do you have to study simultaneously with classes?
I don't believe so.
19. Do most people study in the University Library? Or does the place clear out right after school and everybody studies on their own?
D1s can often be found in the gross lab or morphology lab after hours (they are open 24 hrs/day and weekends).
23. What types of opportunities do students have to explore different specialties?
Clinical rotations allow students to experience working in different specialties.
25. What is the dress code at your school? Scrubs? For what years?
Each year has different color scrubs, that the class will stay in until graduation. Scrub tops mandatory. Scrub bottoms or khakis/slacks allowed.
26. Is there much camaraderie between students in the same class? Do students generally associate with each other outside of school?
Yes, more than I have experienced in undergrad.
28. What are your opinions on the location of the dental school? Is finding housing an issue? Is safety an issue?
School is in a poorer area or the city, but crimes occur near the medical school (downtown) much more often. Housing within 5-10 minutes of the school is easy to find.
29. What do you not like about your dental school?
Coffee is $1.10, not free.
30. Any last words or advice?
I heard an amazing saying from a D2. "Dental school is so much fun if you don't want to specialize."
1. Name of Your Dental School
Louisiana State University
2. Your Year (if you're not comfortable answering that, have you taken Part I of the NBDE?)
D1
3. What is your examination schedule like? Block Schedule (midterms and finals week) or several every week?
About 1-3 tests per week in different classes. Each class has an exam about every 3 or 4 weeks.
4. What is the hardest class? Why?
Morphology. Because several people grade different aspects of wax-ups, meaning they will each grade differently and inconsistently. Wax-ups better than mine are getting 30 points less than mine.
5. What is the easiest class? Why?
Professional development. Guest lecturers every week! No exams!
6. Are class notes based primarily on textbooks? or based on lecture powerpoints made up by professors?
Lecture powerpoints.
7. Are traditional (paper) textbooks used or are they electronic? If electronic, do you prefer traditional textbooks?
Electronic textbooks, though I MUCH prefer traditional textbooks.
8. What is the grading system? Pass/Fail/Honors? Letter Grades? Percentages?
Some classes are A, B, C, F. Others are Pass/fail.
9. Are your classmates generally gunners and try to sabatoge each other? If not, is the culture one where everybody tries to help everybody out?
Nobody tries to sabatoge one another. Everyone helps each other out by sharing study resources, study guides, etc.
10. Is there a notetaking service for lecture available?
Not that I am aware of, though students are always willing to share notes upon request.
11. Is class attendance mandatory?
We can miss up to 20% of the class, I believe. So for a class with 100+ hours (like Gross), we can miss several days of class, whereas shorter classes (like radiology) can be missed only once or twice.
12. In general, are teachers approachable for questions? Or are they for the most part very busy and unreachable (research, etc...)?
Very approachable. No teachers seem too intimidating or cold to help out students. Even if the teachers work in the downtown medical school (a few minutes away from the dental school), they are easy to reach by phone.
13. What is the drop out rate?
Almost 0%. I know of nobody dropping out intentionally.
14. Are there any resources to help students who are struggling?
There are tutoring and stress management resources.
15. What is the % first time board pass rate? What is the average score (if available)?
I am not sure yet, but I have not heard of anybody failing it yet.
16. When do you take the NDBE Part 1?
Before D3. I will probably take it after D1 or halfway through D2.
17. Does the school offer classes/review sessions to prepare for Part 1?
I don't believe so.
18. Do you get a block of time off before boards to study? If so, how long? If not, do you have to study simultaneously with classes?
I don't believe so.
19. Do most people study in the University Library? Or does the place clear out right after school and everybody studies on their own?
D1s can often be found in the gross lab or morphology lab after hours (they are open 24 hrs/day and weekends).
23. What types of opportunities do students have to explore different specialties?
Clinical rotations allow students to experience working in different specialties.
25. What is the dress code at your school? Scrubs? For what years?
Each year has different color scrubs, that the class will stay in until graduation. Scrub tops mandatory. Scrub bottoms or khakis/slacks allowed.
26. Is there much camaraderie between students in the same class? Do students generally associate with each other outside of school?
Yes, more than I have experienced in undergrad.
28. What are your opinions on the location of the dental school? Is finding housing an issue? Is safety an issue?
School is in a poorer area or the city, but crimes occur near the medical school (downtown) much more often. Housing within 5-10 minutes of the school is easy to find.
29. What do you not like about your dental school?
Coffee is $1.10, not free.
30. Any last words or advice?
I heard an amazing saying from a D2. "Dental school is so much fun if you don't want to specialize."
Last edited:
- Joined
- Apr 4, 2013
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- 17
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can someone pls do unlv?
1. Name of Your Dental School: GRU College of Dental Medicine
2. Your Year (if you're not comfortable answering that, have you taken Part I of the NBDE?) D1 going into 2nd semester.
3. What is your examination schedule like? Block Schedule (midterms and finals week) or several every week? 1st semester: Usually 1-2 Exams a week on average, and usually 1-2 quizzes
4. What is the hardest class? Why? For 1st semester: Occlusion, learning anything new will be difficult at first.
5. What is the easiest class? Why? clerkship maybe
6. Are class notes based primarily on textbooks? or based on lecture powerpoints made up by professors? Generally every class is powerpoint. Textbooks are used if needed for further background info.
7. Are traditional (paper) textbooks used or are they electronic? If electronic, do you prefer traditional textbooks? Most people use electronic and some paper, depends on the person.
8. What is the grading system? Pass/Fail/Honors? Letter Grades? Percentages? Grading scale...w/ some classes weighing more than other scale is higher.
9. Are your classmates generally gunners and try to sabatoge each other? If not, is the culture one where everybody tries to help everybody out? Everyone is friendly with each other but everyone is also very on top of their studies, but it's never overt or aggressive. To do well here you need to put in the time.
10. Is there a notetaking service for lecture available? Yes, most classes designate a few students to post notes.
11. Is class attendance mandatory?Yes, but depending on whether or not there are sign in sheets you can skip
12. In general, are teachers approachable for questions? Or are they for the most part very busy and unreachable (research, etc...)? All profs are approachable
13. What is the drop out rate? Have never heard of any to drop out
14. Are there any resources to help students who are struggling? If you fail a course you usually remediate and continue, depending on the severity you can potentially retake the course, and depending on the type of course, worse case you must retake the year.
15. What is the % first time board pass rate? What is the average score (if available)? Not totally sure about all of the previous classes before me entering but 100% of our current 3rd years passed part 1. So yes they prepare you for boards.
16. When do you take the NDBE Part 1? After summer, going into 3rd year.
17. Does the school offer classes/review sessions to prepare for Part 1? I believe so, yes
18. Do you get a block of time off before boards to study? If so, how long? If not, do you have to study simultaneously with classes? From what I was told yes you get time off to study for part 1.
19. Do most people study in the University Library? Or does the place clear out right after school and everybody studies on their own? Library. Wherever you can get work done. The dental school study areas, The new med bldg., home, car, friends house, on the way to class, inbetween classes.
20. Are patients readily available to fulfill clinical requirements or do you have to do a lot of work to get them in? You have to set your own appointments, but patients are available hopefully your working on something unique. I have heard it can be hard to fulfill requirements.
21. Is it a hassle to get a chair once you get patients in? In your opinion, does your school have enough chairs? The dental school has more than enough chairs.
22. What are the clinical requirements to graduate? (number of crowns, fillings, etc...) Is it reasonably attainable or pretty difficult? It can be done, it's not crazy.
23. What types of opportunities do students have to explore different specialties? You can do anything at GRU
24. Is there sufficent preparation for practice management? What career placement opportunites does your school offer? No too sure but I do know we have lunch and learns frequently where many people come to speak to us about many things concerning dentistry.
25. What is the dress code at your school? Scrubs? For what years? Business professional in lecture, scrubs in lab. No casual wear.
26. Is there much camaraderie between students in the same class? Do students generally associate with each other outside of school? We're all great friends. During down time is when we party the most together!!!
27. What student organizations are most active? ASDA, SNDA, Public health, the Hispanic organization, Operation smile, Dentists for Della etc. (sorry cant remember all or their appropriate abbreviations)
28. What are your opinions on the location of the dental school? Is finding housing an issue? Is safety an issue? In a good location, housing can be found on campus, most off campus apartments are about 10-15 min away some are closer.
29. What do you not like about your dental school? The spacing of tests, and lecture portion of some lab courses.
30. Any last words or advice? Be organized, work hard and have fun!
2. Your Year (if you're not comfortable answering that, have you taken Part I of the NBDE?) D1 going into 2nd semester.
3. What is your examination schedule like? Block Schedule (midterms and finals week) or several every week? 1st semester: Usually 1-2 Exams a week on average, and usually 1-2 quizzes
4. What is the hardest class? Why? For 1st semester: Occlusion, learning anything new will be difficult at first.
5. What is the easiest class? Why? clerkship maybe
6. Are class notes based primarily on textbooks? or based on lecture powerpoints made up by professors? Generally every class is powerpoint. Textbooks are used if needed for further background info.
7. Are traditional (paper) textbooks used or are they electronic? If electronic, do you prefer traditional textbooks? Most people use electronic and some paper, depends on the person.
8. What is the grading system? Pass/Fail/Honors? Letter Grades? Percentages? Grading scale...w/ some classes weighing more than other scale is higher.
9. Are your classmates generally gunners and try to sabatoge each other? If not, is the culture one where everybody tries to help everybody out? Everyone is friendly with each other but everyone is also very on top of their studies, but it's never overt or aggressive. To do well here you need to put in the time.
10. Is there a notetaking service for lecture available? Yes, most classes designate a few students to post notes.
11. Is class attendance mandatory?Yes, but depending on whether or not there are sign in sheets you can skip
12. In general, are teachers approachable for questions? Or are they for the most part very busy and unreachable (research, etc...)? All profs are approachable
13. What is the drop out rate? Have never heard of any to drop out
14. Are there any resources to help students who are struggling? If you fail a course you usually remediate and continue, depending on the severity you can potentially retake the course, and depending on the type of course, worse case you must retake the year.
15. What is the % first time board pass rate? What is the average score (if available)? Not totally sure about all of the previous classes before me entering but 100% of our current 3rd years passed part 1. So yes they prepare you for boards.
16. When do you take the NDBE Part 1? After summer, going into 3rd year.
17. Does the school offer classes/review sessions to prepare for Part 1? I believe so, yes
18. Do you get a block of time off before boards to study? If so, how long? If not, do you have to study simultaneously with classes? From what I was told yes you get time off to study for part 1.
19. Do most people study in the University Library? Or does the place clear out right after school and everybody studies on their own? Library. Wherever you can get work done. The dental school study areas, The new med bldg., home, car, friends house, on the way to class, inbetween classes.
20. Are patients readily available to fulfill clinical requirements or do you have to do a lot of work to get them in? You have to set your own appointments, but patients are available hopefully your working on something unique. I have heard it can be hard to fulfill requirements.
21. Is it a hassle to get a chair once you get patients in? In your opinion, does your school have enough chairs? The dental school has more than enough chairs.
22. What are the clinical requirements to graduate? (number of crowns, fillings, etc...) Is it reasonably attainable or pretty difficult? It can be done, it's not crazy.
23. What types of opportunities do students have to explore different specialties? You can do anything at GRU
24. Is there sufficent preparation for practice management? What career placement opportunites does your school offer? No too sure but I do know we have lunch and learns frequently where many people come to speak to us about many things concerning dentistry.
25. What is the dress code at your school? Scrubs? For what years? Business professional in lecture, scrubs in lab. No casual wear.
26. Is there much camaraderie between students in the same class? Do students generally associate with each other outside of school? We're all great friends. During down time is when we party the most together!!!
27. What student organizations are most active? ASDA, SNDA, Public health, the Hispanic organization, Operation smile, Dentists for Della etc. (sorry cant remember all or their appropriate abbreviations)
28. What are your opinions on the location of the dental school? Is finding housing an issue? Is safety an issue? In a good location, housing can be found on campus, most off campus apartments are about 10-15 min away some are closer.
29. What do you not like about your dental school? The spacing of tests, and lecture portion of some lab courses.
30. Any last words or advice? Be organized, work hard and have fun!
- Joined
- May 8, 2014
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University of Pittsburg Please?
- Joined
- Apr 14, 2012
- Messages
- 18
- Reaction score
- 6
1. Name of Your Dental School
University of New England College of Dental Medicine
2. Your Year (if you're not comfortable answering that, have you taken Part I of the NBDE?)
D2
3. What is your examination schedule like? Block Schedule (midterms and finals week) or several every week?
Midterms spread out; finals over a 2-week period
4. What is the hardest class? Why?
Me: Microbiology & Immunology (combined course)
Others: Anatomy
5. What is the easiest class? Why?
Community Dentistry & Public Health series of courses.
6. Are class notes based primarily on textbooks? or based on lecture powerpoints made up by professors?
A mix, most course directors use the textbooks as the basis for presentations, and the test questions tend to come from the presentations. Some course directors use no single text, but a collection of resources/readings.
7. Are traditional (paper) textbooks used or are they electronic? If electronic, do you prefer traditional textbooks?
VitalSource eBooks
8. What is the grading system? Pass/Fail/Honors? Letter Grades? Percentages?
Currently: A/B/C/Fail, no ±, with Patient Care (Clinic) P/F
9. Are your classmates generally gunners and try to sabatoge each other? If not, is the culture one where everybody tries to help everybody out?
Highly collaborative and supportive.
10. Is there a notetaking service for lecture available?
No idea if there is anything official. Many people post their notes / study guides in the FB group.
11. Is class attendance mandatory?
Yes, in all classes.
12. In general, are teachers approachable for questions? Or are they for the most part very busy and unreachable (research, etc...)?
Yes. There are a couple part-time faculty who only are on campus 2 days/week, but they tend to be available. There have been some complaints about a couple faculty members either being difficult to talk with or unwilling to reconsider a test question, but overall the relationships seem quite positive.
13. What is the drop out rate?
So far, 0%
14. Are there any resources to help students who are struggling?
Yes. Learning center, tutors, coffee.
15. What is the % first time board pass rate? What is the average score (if available)?
TBD
16. When do you take the NDBE Part 1?
If in good academic standing, you are eligible to take the NBDE1 after completion of D2S2 (D2 fall) semester. It must be taken before the start of D3S2 (D3 fall).
17. Does the school offer classes/review sessions to prepare for Part 1?
Yes. during D2S3 (spring of D2)
18. Do you get a block of time off before boards to study? If so, how long? If not, do you have to study simultaneously with classes?
No.
19. Do most people study in the University Library? Or does the place clear out right after school and everybody studies on their own?
A clear plurality do choose to study in the library or one of the buildings on campus. The library is open 24 hours/day Sun-F, and closes at 9 or 10 on F/Sat. Most campus buildings are open until midnight for studying. After-hours simulation clinic is accessible 5-9 pm during the week, and 8-12 on Saturday mornings.
20. Are patients readily available to fulfill clinical requirements or do you have to do a lot of work to get them in?
Yes. There are no unit requirements; the clinical portion is competency-based.
21. Is it a hassle to get a chair once you get patients in? In your opinion, does your school have enough chairs?
Absolutely not. There are enough chairs.
22. What are the clinical requirements to graduate? (number of crowns, fillings, etc...) Is it reasonably attainable or pretty difficult?
There are no unit requirements. Everyone must be competent in each category to graduate, be it by performing 1 or 50 procedures to get there.
23. What types of opportunities do students have to explore different specialties?
There are no specialty programs at UNE at this time. While this does mean that oral surgery gets referred out at this time, it also means that residents do not cherry-pick cases from among our patients.
24. Is there sufficent preparation for practice management? What career placement opportunites does your school offer?
TBD. TBD.
25. What is the dress code at your school? Scrubs? For what years?
Didactic courses: business casual (no jeans)
Simulation (Pre-) Clinical & Clinical: business attire
No scrubs, except in the anatomy lab.
26. Is there much camaraderie between students in the same class? Do students generally associate with each other outside of school?
Yes & Yes. We've organized dodgeball leagues, inter-professional kickball, shot a music video, and had a number of raging parties.
27. What student organizations are most active?
ASDA, AGD, ADEA, Student Council. There are also a number of inter-professional organizations and recreational clubs (outdoor adventure, tennis, dodgeball, etc.)
28. What are your opinions on the location of the dental school? Is finding housing an issue? Is safety an issue?
Portland is a small city. It is the biggest city in the state, and consequently, it has SOME "big city" features like nightlife and culture. But NYC, it is not. Personally, I prefer this.
Finding housing can be a challenge, as the available rental pool is small and tends to rent very quickly. Portland has 96% rental occupancy year-round to qualify the supply in some way. Once housing is found, it does tend to be affordable, especially by east-coast standards. Students in my class are paying between $450 - $1900 per month for their housing. The high end of that range represents those who chose to pay that much, nut because it was the only thing available.
A few students have bought houses locally in the $200K range.
Safety: On campus, safety is absolutely not an issue outside of slipping on some ice in the dead of winter. Downtown / Old Port, typical safety precautions apply late at night.
29. What do you not like about your dental school?
This is a new school, so policy & procedure is still being ironed out, but rapidly. Some materials have moved in the clinic, from the dispensary to the supply cabinet, and so forth. Typical clinical headaches. Waiting for faculty checks while with patients takes too long, but I don't believe this is unique to UNE.
Personally, I prefer the no-scrubs policy in the classroom, but, I would prefer scrubs-only in the clinic.
It gets dark early in the winter in Maine. I cannot blame this on the school, but I still don't like a 3:45pm sunset.
Lastly, research opportunities are not yet developed.
30. Any last words or advice?
Class size is a factor in choosing a school. The class size at UNE is 64: large enough to be able to have friends with common interests, but small enough that you never get lost in the mix.
The mission of the school is more tailored to educating general dentists. If direct entry into a specialty program is a goal, the channels that facilitate this do not yet exist, nor does a large (dental) alumni network. This is something to consider if/when applying. Specializing is still possible if that is a goal, it just might take a bit more legwork.
University of New England College of Dental Medicine
2. Your Year (if you're not comfortable answering that, have you taken Part I of the NBDE?)
D2
3. What is your examination schedule like? Block Schedule (midterms and finals week) or several every week?
Midterms spread out; finals over a 2-week period
4. What is the hardest class? Why?
Me: Microbiology & Immunology (combined course)
Others: Anatomy
5. What is the easiest class? Why?
Community Dentistry & Public Health series of courses.
6. Are class notes based primarily on textbooks? or based on lecture powerpoints made up by professors?
A mix, most course directors use the textbooks as the basis for presentations, and the test questions tend to come from the presentations. Some course directors use no single text, but a collection of resources/readings.
7. Are traditional (paper) textbooks used or are they electronic? If electronic, do you prefer traditional textbooks?
VitalSource eBooks
8. What is the grading system? Pass/Fail/Honors? Letter Grades? Percentages?
Currently: A/B/C/Fail, no ±, with Patient Care (Clinic) P/F
9. Are your classmates generally gunners and try to sabatoge each other? If not, is the culture one where everybody tries to help everybody out?
Highly collaborative and supportive.
10. Is there a notetaking service for lecture available?
No idea if there is anything official. Many people post their notes / study guides in the FB group.
11. Is class attendance mandatory?
Yes, in all classes.
12. In general, are teachers approachable for questions? Or are they for the most part very busy and unreachable (research, etc...)?
Yes. There are a couple part-time faculty who only are on campus 2 days/week, but they tend to be available. There have been some complaints about a couple faculty members either being difficult to talk with or unwilling to reconsider a test question, but overall the relationships seem quite positive.
13. What is the drop out rate?
So far, 0%
14. Are there any resources to help students who are struggling?
Yes. Learning center, tutors, coffee.
15. What is the % first time board pass rate? What is the average score (if available)?
TBD
16. When do you take the NDBE Part 1?
If in good academic standing, you are eligible to take the NBDE1 after completion of D2S2 (D2 fall) semester. It must be taken before the start of D3S2 (D3 fall).
17. Does the school offer classes/review sessions to prepare for Part 1?
Yes. during D2S3 (spring of D2)
18. Do you get a block of time off before boards to study? If so, how long? If not, do you have to study simultaneously with classes?
No.
19. Do most people study in the University Library? Or does the place clear out right after school and everybody studies on their own?
A clear plurality do choose to study in the library or one of the buildings on campus. The library is open 24 hours/day Sun-F, and closes at 9 or 10 on F/Sat. Most campus buildings are open until midnight for studying. After-hours simulation clinic is accessible 5-9 pm during the week, and 8-12 on Saturday mornings.
20. Are patients readily available to fulfill clinical requirements or do you have to do a lot of work to get them in?
Yes. There are no unit requirements; the clinical portion is competency-based.
21. Is it a hassle to get a chair once you get patients in? In your opinion, does your school have enough chairs?
Absolutely not. There are enough chairs.
22. What are the clinical requirements to graduate? (number of crowns, fillings, etc...) Is it reasonably attainable or pretty difficult?
There are no unit requirements. Everyone must be competent in each category to graduate, be it by performing 1 or 50 procedures to get there.
23. What types of opportunities do students have to explore different specialties?
There are no specialty programs at UNE at this time. While this does mean that oral surgery gets referred out at this time, it also means that residents do not cherry-pick cases from among our patients.
24. Is there sufficent preparation for practice management? What career placement opportunites does your school offer?
TBD. TBD.
25. What is the dress code at your school? Scrubs? For what years?
Didactic courses: business casual (no jeans)
Simulation (Pre-) Clinical & Clinical: business attire
No scrubs, except in the anatomy lab.
26. Is there much camaraderie between students in the same class? Do students generally associate with each other outside of school?
Yes & Yes. We've organized dodgeball leagues, inter-professional kickball, shot a music video, and had a number of raging parties.
27. What student organizations are most active?
ASDA, AGD, ADEA, Student Council. There are also a number of inter-professional organizations and recreational clubs (outdoor adventure, tennis, dodgeball, etc.)
28. What are your opinions on the location of the dental school? Is finding housing an issue? Is safety an issue?
Portland is a small city. It is the biggest city in the state, and consequently, it has SOME "big city" features like nightlife and culture. But NYC, it is not. Personally, I prefer this.
Finding housing can be a challenge, as the available rental pool is small and tends to rent very quickly. Portland has 96% rental occupancy year-round to qualify the supply in some way. Once housing is found, it does tend to be affordable, especially by east-coast standards. Students in my class are paying between $450 - $1900 per month for their housing. The high end of that range represents those who chose to pay that much, nut because it was the only thing available.
A few students have bought houses locally in the $200K range.
Safety: On campus, safety is absolutely not an issue outside of slipping on some ice in the dead of winter. Downtown / Old Port, typical safety precautions apply late at night.
29. What do you not like about your dental school?
This is a new school, so policy & procedure is still being ironed out, but rapidly. Some materials have moved in the clinic, from the dispensary to the supply cabinet, and so forth. Typical clinical headaches. Waiting for faculty checks while with patients takes too long, but I don't believe this is unique to UNE.
Personally, I prefer the no-scrubs policy in the classroom, but, I would prefer scrubs-only in the clinic.
It gets dark early in the winter in Maine. I cannot blame this on the school, but I still don't like a 3:45pm sunset.
Lastly, research opportunities are not yet developed.
30. Any last words or advice?
Class size is a factor in choosing a school. The class size at UNE is 64: large enough to be able to have friends with common interests, but small enough that you never get lost in the mix.
The mission of the school is more tailored to educating general dentists. If direct entry into a specialty program is a goal, the channels that facilitate this do not yet exist, nor does a large (dental) alumni network. This is something to consider if/when applying. Specializing is still possible if that is a goal, it just might take a bit more legwork.
Last edited:
- Joined
- Jul 22, 2010
- Messages
- 154
- Reaction score
- 4
1. Name of Your Dental School
University of the Pacific, Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry
2. Your Year (if you're not comfortable answering that, have you taken Part I of the NBDE?)
D3 (senior)
3. What is your examination schedule like? Block Schedule (midterms and finals week) or several every week?
Block schedule during finals week for all years
1-2 per quarter for D2 and D3
Several exams/quizzes per week for D1
4. What is the hardest class? Why?
Endo due to the test question style and difficult dx questions.
5. What is the easiest class? Why?
Dental anatomy due to extensive practice question bank and clear presentation of material.
6. Are class notes based primarily on textbooks? or based on lecture powerpoints made up by professors?
Mostly powerpoints, textbooks and journal articles mostly for reference.
7. Are traditional (paper) textbooks used or are they electronic? If electronic, do you prefer traditional textbooks?
Our textbooks are electronic. I'm splint between traditional and electronic in terms of my preference -- I like the portability of electronic text books, but I prefer highlighting and note-taking in traditional textbooks.
8. What is the grading system? Pass/Fail/Honors? Letter Grades? Percentages?
Letter grades
9. Are your classmates generally gunners and try to sabatoge each other? If not, is the culture one where everybody tries to help everybody out?
Classmates are generally very collaborative and helpful. We have some gunners, but they are usually helpful also.
10. Is there a notetaking service for lecture available?
No formal notetaking service, but classmates are very willing to share notes and study guides. We have a school website where students can post notes and study guides for each other.
11. Is class attendance mandatory?
In most classes, but not all.
12. In general, are teachers approachable for questions? Or are they for the most part very busy and unreachable (research, etc...)?
Most professors are VERY approachable and willing to work with you to help you in any way they can.
13. What is the drop out rate?
2 people dropped out from our initial class size of 141
14. Are there any resources to help students who are struggling?
Yes -- the school sponsors tutoring to help students who are struggling and/or failing. Remediation is available for all classes if needed, and professors are generally willing to help students succeed in any way possible.
15. What is the % first time board pass rate? What is the average score (if available)?
My class had a 99% pass rate for NBDE 1.
16. When do you take the NDBE Part 1?
Between October and February of D2
17. Does the school offer classes/review sessions to prepare for Part 1?
No formal review sessions, but the school provides a study guide and question bank, nicknamed "Bender's Binder", to assist in studying
18. Do you get a block of time off before boards to study? If so, how long? If not, do you have to study simultaneously with classes?
No block time is formally given to study. Some students elect to study intensely during fall (1 wk) or winter breaks (2 wks) to take the exam, but most balance studying w/ classes. The course load for Autumn quarter of D2 is somewhat lighter to allow for additional study time.
19. Do most people study in the University Library? Or does the place clear out right after school and everybody studies on their own?
Since the school moved downtown, students usually don't study at the library (since it's halfway across town). There are a number of study rooms available at the school, as well as many cafes all over SF, where most people study.
20. Are patients readily available to fulfill clinical requirements or do you have to do a lot of work to get them in?
For the most part, yes. Patient pools vary between students, so there is some variability in this. However, most classmates are very willing to share patients in order to help each other fulfill requirements.
21. Is it a hassle to get a chair once you get patients in? In your opinion, does your school have enough chairs?
Usually it's not an issue, but scheduling can get tight at the end of the year or if trying to get a chair less than 1 week in advance.
22. What are the clinical requirements to graduate? (number of crowns, fillings, etc...) Is it reasonably attainable or pretty difficult?
While we have no set unit "requirements," we have suggested targets to reach in terms of procedures. We also have required competencies that must be passed to graduate -- some students pass all competencies on the first try, while others may need to take multiples of each in order to pass.
It's a pretty lengthy list of "requirements", but it's possible to get them all completed.
1) Dx and Tx Planning: Competencies -> 4 New Pt Exams & Tx Planning, 1 Geriatric/Medically Complex Pt Exam, 1 Special Needs Pt Exam
2) Operative: 170 surfaces; Competencies -> 5 Class II or Class III Restorations + 2 Class II or Class III restorations for Mock Boards ("Summative Exams")
3) Fixed: 18 units delivered; Competencies -> 5 Prep & Temp (1 must be build-up, prep & temp) + 2 Prep & Temp for "Summative Exams", 5 Final Impression, 5 Delivery + 2 Implant Tx Planning "Summative Exams"
4) Removable: 6 cases delivered; Competencies -> 2 Case Design & Final Impression (one CD, one RPD), 1 Jaw Relations, 1 Wax-Try In, 1 Delivery + 2 RPD Design "Summative Exams"
5) Perio: 30 recalls, 1 re-eval to 6 Q SRP ratio; Competencies -> 2 new pt perio exams, 1 re-eval exam, 1 perio diagnostic exam, 1 OHI, 2 Q Calculus Detection/SRP + 2 Q Calc Detection/SRP for Mock Boards ("Summative Exams")
6) Oral Surgery: 30 extractions; Competencies -> 1 Pt Work-Up & Case Presentation, 1 Routine Extraction, 1 Surgical Extraction
7) Endo: 8 endos; Competencies -> 1 anterior access, 1 posterior access, 1 cleaning & shaping, 1 obturation, 1 radiographic, 3 repeated of any category + 2 Access Summative Exams (anterior, bicuspid, and molar accesses for each) + 2 Cleaning & Shaping Summative Exams (anterior & posterior for each)
8) Pedo: Competencies -> 3 New Pt or Recall Exams, 1 Class II, 1 Pulp/SSC
9) Emergency: Competencies -> 2 ER dx and palliative tx
10) Ortho: 6 case reviews
23. What types of opportunities do students have to explore different specialties?
We have ortho and endo residency programs on-site, and an oral surgery residency program based out of Highland Hospital in Oakland. Our pedo and perio department chairs are also very active and involved in getting all pedo applicants matched.
We also have a number of extramural rotations that give a greater and wider clinical perspective to students. All students are required to rotate through Highland Hospital (for part of OS clinical experience), Laguna Honda Hospital (for experience w/ geriatric, special needs, and medically complex pts), and CPMC Hospital (for hospital dentistry through the OR). 2-3 other extramural rotations are required, but students can choose the sites based upon interests (certain clinics give more pedo, operative, or removable experience, etc.).
24. Is there sufficent preparation for practice management? What career placement opportunites does your school offer?
A practice management course is offered in the D3 year, where students will work in groups to run a simulated dental practice from initial practice purchase through 12 fiscal quarters.
Our alumni association is a great resource for networking and job opportunities, as well as various job fairs throughout the year.
25. What is the dress code at your school? Scrubs? For what years?
Professional dress / business casual for all years.
26. Is there much camaraderie between students in the same class? Do students generally associate with each other outside of school?
Yes, most of our class is very close. We always have events going on and people generally spend time together outside of school.
27. What student organizations are most active?
ASDA is always very active, as well are each of the specialty study clubs. There are also a number of special interest clubs that are very active.
28. What are your opinions on the location of the dental school? Is finding housing an issue? Is safety an issue?
The school's new location (5th and Mission) is great for pt accessibility since it is right near BART & many MUNI lines. However, the downtown location makes it difficult to find affordable housing near the school (although that is a challenge just about anywhere in SF).
The area of the school is not as safe as the old location, but there are usually a lot of people out and about since it's downtown.
29. What do you not like about your dental school?
Mandatory night clinic hours on Monday and Thursday nights.
30. Any last words or advice?
Loved my experience at UOP! I feel that I've gotten great clinical training and I love the collaborative and humanistic environment. Couldn't be happier with my choice for dental school!
University of the Pacific, Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry
2. Your Year (if you're not comfortable answering that, have you taken Part I of the NBDE?)
D3 (senior)
3. What is your examination schedule like? Block Schedule (midterms and finals week) or several every week?
Block schedule during finals week for all years
1-2 per quarter for D2 and D3
Several exams/quizzes per week for D1
4. What is the hardest class? Why?
Endo due to the test question style and difficult dx questions.
5. What is the easiest class? Why?
Dental anatomy due to extensive practice question bank and clear presentation of material.
6. Are class notes based primarily on textbooks? or based on lecture powerpoints made up by professors?
Mostly powerpoints, textbooks and journal articles mostly for reference.
7. Are traditional (paper) textbooks used or are they electronic? If electronic, do you prefer traditional textbooks?
Our textbooks are electronic. I'm splint between traditional and electronic in terms of my preference -- I like the portability of electronic text books, but I prefer highlighting and note-taking in traditional textbooks.
8. What is the grading system? Pass/Fail/Honors? Letter Grades? Percentages?
Letter grades
9. Are your classmates generally gunners and try to sabatoge each other? If not, is the culture one where everybody tries to help everybody out?
Classmates are generally very collaborative and helpful. We have some gunners, but they are usually helpful also.
10. Is there a notetaking service for lecture available?
No formal notetaking service, but classmates are very willing to share notes and study guides. We have a school website where students can post notes and study guides for each other.
11. Is class attendance mandatory?
In most classes, but not all.
12. In general, are teachers approachable for questions? Or are they for the most part very busy and unreachable (research, etc...)?
Most professors are VERY approachable and willing to work with you to help you in any way they can.
13. What is the drop out rate?
2 people dropped out from our initial class size of 141
14. Are there any resources to help students who are struggling?
Yes -- the school sponsors tutoring to help students who are struggling and/or failing. Remediation is available for all classes if needed, and professors are generally willing to help students succeed in any way possible.
15. What is the % first time board pass rate? What is the average score (if available)?
My class had a 99% pass rate for NBDE 1.
16. When do you take the NDBE Part 1?
Between October and February of D2
17. Does the school offer classes/review sessions to prepare for Part 1?
No formal review sessions, but the school provides a study guide and question bank, nicknamed "Bender's Binder", to assist in studying
18. Do you get a block of time off before boards to study? If so, how long? If not, do you have to study simultaneously with classes?
No block time is formally given to study. Some students elect to study intensely during fall (1 wk) or winter breaks (2 wks) to take the exam, but most balance studying w/ classes. The course load for Autumn quarter of D2 is somewhat lighter to allow for additional study time.
19. Do most people study in the University Library? Or does the place clear out right after school and everybody studies on their own?
Since the school moved downtown, students usually don't study at the library (since it's halfway across town). There are a number of study rooms available at the school, as well as many cafes all over SF, where most people study.
20. Are patients readily available to fulfill clinical requirements or do you have to do a lot of work to get them in?
For the most part, yes. Patient pools vary between students, so there is some variability in this. However, most classmates are very willing to share patients in order to help each other fulfill requirements.
21. Is it a hassle to get a chair once you get patients in? In your opinion, does your school have enough chairs?
Usually it's not an issue, but scheduling can get tight at the end of the year or if trying to get a chair less than 1 week in advance.
22. What are the clinical requirements to graduate? (number of crowns, fillings, etc...) Is it reasonably attainable or pretty difficult?
While we have no set unit "requirements," we have suggested targets to reach in terms of procedures. We also have required competencies that must be passed to graduate -- some students pass all competencies on the first try, while others may need to take multiples of each in order to pass.
It's a pretty lengthy list of "requirements", but it's possible to get them all completed.
1) Dx and Tx Planning: Competencies -> 4 New Pt Exams & Tx Planning, 1 Geriatric/Medically Complex Pt Exam, 1 Special Needs Pt Exam
2) Operative: 170 surfaces; Competencies -> 5 Class II or Class III Restorations + 2 Class II or Class III restorations for Mock Boards ("Summative Exams")
3) Fixed: 18 units delivered; Competencies -> 5 Prep & Temp (1 must be build-up, prep & temp) + 2 Prep & Temp for "Summative Exams", 5 Final Impression, 5 Delivery + 2 Implant Tx Planning "Summative Exams"
4) Removable: 6 cases delivered; Competencies -> 2 Case Design & Final Impression (one CD, one RPD), 1 Jaw Relations, 1 Wax-Try In, 1 Delivery + 2 RPD Design "Summative Exams"
5) Perio: 30 recalls, 1 re-eval to 6 Q SRP ratio; Competencies -> 2 new pt perio exams, 1 re-eval exam, 1 perio diagnostic exam, 1 OHI, 2 Q Calculus Detection/SRP + 2 Q Calc Detection/SRP for Mock Boards ("Summative Exams")
6) Oral Surgery: 30 extractions; Competencies -> 1 Pt Work-Up & Case Presentation, 1 Routine Extraction, 1 Surgical Extraction
7) Endo: 8 endos; Competencies -> 1 anterior access, 1 posterior access, 1 cleaning & shaping, 1 obturation, 1 radiographic, 3 repeated of any category + 2 Access Summative Exams (anterior, bicuspid, and molar accesses for each) + 2 Cleaning & Shaping Summative Exams (anterior & posterior for each)
8) Pedo: Competencies -> 3 New Pt or Recall Exams, 1 Class II, 1 Pulp/SSC
9) Emergency: Competencies -> 2 ER dx and palliative tx
10) Ortho: 6 case reviews
23. What types of opportunities do students have to explore different specialties?
We have ortho and endo residency programs on-site, and an oral surgery residency program based out of Highland Hospital in Oakland. Our pedo and perio department chairs are also very active and involved in getting all pedo applicants matched.
We also have a number of extramural rotations that give a greater and wider clinical perspective to students. All students are required to rotate through Highland Hospital (for part of OS clinical experience), Laguna Honda Hospital (for experience w/ geriatric, special needs, and medically complex pts), and CPMC Hospital (for hospital dentistry through the OR). 2-3 other extramural rotations are required, but students can choose the sites based upon interests (certain clinics give more pedo, operative, or removable experience, etc.).
24. Is there sufficent preparation for practice management? What career placement opportunites does your school offer?
A practice management course is offered in the D3 year, where students will work in groups to run a simulated dental practice from initial practice purchase through 12 fiscal quarters.
Our alumni association is a great resource for networking and job opportunities, as well as various job fairs throughout the year.
25. What is the dress code at your school? Scrubs? For what years?
Professional dress / business casual for all years.
26. Is there much camaraderie between students in the same class? Do students generally associate with each other outside of school?
Yes, most of our class is very close. We always have events going on and people generally spend time together outside of school.
27. What student organizations are most active?
ASDA is always very active, as well are each of the specialty study clubs. There are also a number of special interest clubs that are very active.
28. What are your opinions on the location of the dental school? Is finding housing an issue? Is safety an issue?
The school's new location (5th and Mission) is great for pt accessibility since it is right near BART & many MUNI lines. However, the downtown location makes it difficult to find affordable housing near the school (although that is a challenge just about anywhere in SF).
The area of the school is not as safe as the old location, but there are usually a lot of people out and about since it's downtown.
29. What do you not like about your dental school?
Mandatory night clinic hours on Monday and Thursday nights.
30. Any last words or advice?
Loved my experience at UOP! I feel that I've gotten great clinical training and I love the collaborative and humanistic environment. Couldn't be happier with my choice for dental school!
- Joined
- Mar 5, 2015
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- Reaction score
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ASDOH please!
- Joined
- Jun 20, 2014
- Messages
- 27
- Reaction score
- 12
1. Name of Your Dental School
Missouri School of Dentistry and Oral Health
2. Your Year (if you're not comfortable answering that, have you taken Part I of the NBDE?)
2nd Year
3. What is your examination schedule like? Block Schedule (midterms and finals week) or several every week?
Most of 1st year is strictly Biomedical Courses,taking one class at a time, so several exams per week.
End of 1st year and all of 2nd year are pre-clinical courses where exams are less frequent
4. What is the hardest class? Why?
Neuro, med school teachers teaching dental students. They didn't really understand what we needed to and didn't need to know. Taught us way more than we can handle in the short amount of time we had the class.
5. What is the easiest class? Why?
Oral Medicine, it's a simple class meant to help tie together things you learn in the biomed courses and show their connections to dentistry via fake dental patient scenarios.
6. Are class notes based primarily on textbooks? or based on lecture powerpoints made up by professors?
Class notes are 99% based on lecture powerpoint
7. Are traditional (paper) textbooks used or are they electronic? If electronic, do you prefer traditional textbooks?
We use electronic books. I like them better, they're easier to use (highlighting, searching, bookmarking, etc). Another perk is that while we are in school we will continue to get any new updates the authors release on any of the books.
8. What is the grading system? Pass/Fail/Honors? Letter Grades? Percentages?
Letter grades along with some pass/fail classes.
9. Are your classmates generally gunners and try to sabatoge each other? If not, is the culture one where everybody tries to help everybody out?
There are a few gunners in my class, but for the most part we are all there to help each other succeed. We share notes and study guides and make study groups.
10. Is there a notetaking service for lecture available?
All classes are recorded and posted online.
11. Is class attendance mandatory?
Yes! we have a grade that is predominantly based on class attendance. We are only allowed 2 unexcused absences before this grade drops down a whole letter grade.
12. In general, are teachers approachable for questions? Or are they for the most part very busy and unreachable (research, etc...)?
Teachers are definitely approachable. They genuinely care about each and every one of us and work with us to make sure we all succeed.
13. What is the drop out rate?
Not a single person has dropped out of our program thus far
14. Are there any resources to help students who are struggling?
There is tutoring available, along with staff members who can work with students on things like note-taking skills, overcoming testing anxiety, etc.
15. What is the % first time board pass rate? What is the average score (if available)?
My class had a 100% first time board pass rate, the class before me was in the 80's (due to a compressed schedule and it being the first class)
16. When do you take the NDBE Part 1?
Summer after 1st year.
17. Does the school offer classes/review sessions to prepare for Part 1?
Yes. They offer numerous lectures and review sessions throughout the semester before we take it. They also make us take mock board exam so that we can see where we are before taking the actual exam.
18. Do you get a block of time off before boards to study? If so, how long? If not, do you have to study simultaneously with classes?
We get 5 weeks off for summer and during that time we have to take boards.
19. Do most people study in the University Library? Or does the place clear out right after school and everybody studies on their own?
Our class was about half and half. Those that stayed made study groups and studies together
20. Are patients readily available to fulfill clinical requirements or do you have to do a lot of work to get them in?
The clinic has only been open for 1 month now, so that would be hard to say for certain at this point.
21. Is it a hassle to get a chair once you get patients in? In your opinion, does your school have enough chairs?
Each student has their own chair in the clinic, and there are extras in case they decide to expand our class size.
22. What are the clinical requirements to graduate? (number of crowns, fillings, etc...) Is it reasonably attainable or pretty difficult?
I'm uncertain
23. What types of opportunities do students have to explore different specialties?
During our pre-clinical work, we get experience on each specialty and then will have plenty of opportunities in the clinic since we don't have post-doc specialty candidates stealing these patients.
24. Is there sufficent preparation for practice management? What career placement opportunites does your school offer?
Unsure
25. What is the dress code at your school? Scrubs? For what years?
Students must be in either business casual attire or scrubs at all times. Scrubs must be either ceil or royal blue. 3rd year students wear only ceil blue and 4th year student wear only royal blue.
26. Is there much camaraderie between students in the same class? Do students generally associate with each other outside of school?
Our class is like a big family, we go out every weekend together, celebrate after tests together, etc.
27. What student organizations are most active?
American Student Dental Association (ASDA) and Delta Sigma Delta are the two big ones but there are numerous others
28. What are your opinions on the location of the dental school? Is finding housing an issue? Is safety an issue?
There's no problems finding housing in Kirksville (where we spend the first two years) or in St. Louis (where we spend the 3rd and 4th years). Safety isn't an issue either
29. What do you not like about your dental school?
There's still a few kinks they're still working out since the school is still in its infancy, but nothing terrible.
30. Any last words or advice?
Missouri School of Dentistry and Oral Health
2. Your Year (if you're not comfortable answering that, have you taken Part I of the NBDE?)
2nd Year
3. What is your examination schedule like? Block Schedule (midterms and finals week) or several every week?
Most of 1st year is strictly Biomedical Courses,taking one class at a time, so several exams per week.
End of 1st year and all of 2nd year are pre-clinical courses where exams are less frequent
4. What is the hardest class? Why?
Neuro, med school teachers teaching dental students. They didn't really understand what we needed to and didn't need to know. Taught us way more than we can handle in the short amount of time we had the class.
5. What is the easiest class? Why?
Oral Medicine, it's a simple class meant to help tie together things you learn in the biomed courses and show their connections to dentistry via fake dental patient scenarios.
6. Are class notes based primarily on textbooks? or based on lecture powerpoints made up by professors?
Class notes are 99% based on lecture powerpoint
7. Are traditional (paper) textbooks used or are they electronic? If electronic, do you prefer traditional textbooks?
We use electronic books. I like them better, they're easier to use (highlighting, searching, bookmarking, etc). Another perk is that while we are in school we will continue to get any new updates the authors release on any of the books.
8. What is the grading system? Pass/Fail/Honors? Letter Grades? Percentages?
Letter grades along with some pass/fail classes.
9. Are your classmates generally gunners and try to sabatoge each other? If not, is the culture one where everybody tries to help everybody out?
There are a few gunners in my class, but for the most part we are all there to help each other succeed. We share notes and study guides and make study groups.
10. Is there a notetaking service for lecture available?
All classes are recorded and posted online.
11. Is class attendance mandatory?
Yes! we have a grade that is predominantly based on class attendance. We are only allowed 2 unexcused absences before this grade drops down a whole letter grade.
12. In general, are teachers approachable for questions? Or are they for the most part very busy and unreachable (research, etc...)?
Teachers are definitely approachable. They genuinely care about each and every one of us and work with us to make sure we all succeed.
13. What is the drop out rate?
Not a single person has dropped out of our program thus far
14. Are there any resources to help students who are struggling?
There is tutoring available, along with staff members who can work with students on things like note-taking skills, overcoming testing anxiety, etc.
15. What is the % first time board pass rate? What is the average score (if available)?
My class had a 100% first time board pass rate, the class before me was in the 80's (due to a compressed schedule and it being the first class)
16. When do you take the NDBE Part 1?
Summer after 1st year.
17. Does the school offer classes/review sessions to prepare for Part 1?
Yes. They offer numerous lectures and review sessions throughout the semester before we take it. They also make us take mock board exam so that we can see where we are before taking the actual exam.
18. Do you get a block of time off before boards to study? If so, how long? If not, do you have to study simultaneously with classes?
We get 5 weeks off for summer and during that time we have to take boards.
19. Do most people study in the University Library? Or does the place clear out right after school and everybody studies on their own?
Our class was about half and half. Those that stayed made study groups and studies together
20. Are patients readily available to fulfill clinical requirements or do you have to do a lot of work to get them in?
The clinic has only been open for 1 month now, so that would be hard to say for certain at this point.
21. Is it a hassle to get a chair once you get patients in? In your opinion, does your school have enough chairs?
Each student has their own chair in the clinic, and there are extras in case they decide to expand our class size.
22. What are the clinical requirements to graduate? (number of crowns, fillings, etc...) Is it reasonably attainable or pretty difficult?
I'm uncertain
23. What types of opportunities do students have to explore different specialties?
During our pre-clinical work, we get experience on each specialty and then will have plenty of opportunities in the clinic since we don't have post-doc specialty candidates stealing these patients.
24. Is there sufficent preparation for practice management? What career placement opportunites does your school offer?
Unsure
25. What is the dress code at your school? Scrubs? For what years?
Students must be in either business casual attire or scrubs at all times. Scrubs must be either ceil or royal blue. 3rd year students wear only ceil blue and 4th year student wear only royal blue.
26. Is there much camaraderie between students in the same class? Do students generally associate with each other outside of school?
Our class is like a big family, we go out every weekend together, celebrate after tests together, etc.
27. What student organizations are most active?
American Student Dental Association (ASDA) and Delta Sigma Delta are the two big ones but there are numerous others
28. What are your opinions on the location of the dental school? Is finding housing an issue? Is safety an issue?
There's no problems finding housing in Kirksville (where we spend the first two years) or in St. Louis (where we spend the 3rd and 4th years). Safety isn't an issue either
29. What do you not like about your dental school?
There's still a few kinks they're still working out since the school is still in its infancy, but nothing terrible.
30. Any last words or advice?
- Joined
- Mar 13, 2012
- Messages
- 1,942
- Reaction score
- 1,462
Bump
- Joined
- Apr 15, 2011
- Messages
- 2,031
- Reaction score
- 631
1. Name of Your Dental School: UConn SODM
2. Your Year (if you're not comfortable answering that, have you taken Part I of the NBDE?) 4th year, yes
3. What is your examination schedule like? Block Schedule (midterms and finals week) or several every week? Block for the basic medical sciences (1 4-5 hour exam every 8-12 weeks), and then intermittent exams for the dental classes
4. What is the hardest class? Why? Dental: Oral Pathology. Just have to memorize a bucket load of stuff. Overall: Probably MOD1, or OS1, or one of the med school exams
5. What is the easiest class? Why? Infection control. Because common sense.
6. Are class notes based primarily on textbooks? or based on lecture powerpoints made up by professors? Powerpoints. That said, a lot of notes are passed down from upper classmen.
7. Are traditional (paper) textbooks used or are they electronic? If electronic, do you prefer traditional textbooks? Very few textbooks used, but those used are traditional
8. What is the grading system? Pass/Fail/Honors? Letter Grades? Percentages? P/F in the strict sense. No honors, no percentiles, etc.
9. Are your classmates generally gunners and try to sabatoge each other? If not, is the culture one where everybody tries to help everybody out? Every cohort is different, but there will always be a gunner or two. That said, everyone is very helpful to each other and really tries hard to help out if they can.
10. Is there a notetaking service for lecture available? Not that I am aware of.
11. Is class attendance mandatory? Supposedly
12. In general, are teachers approachable for questions? Or are they for the most part very busy and unreachable (research, etc...)? Very approachable. Since the class size is so small (35-45 per year) it is hard to "hide" in the class. Also most professors will get to know you, so almost by default they become approachable.
13. What is the drop out rate? Once again, since class size is so small, the percentage will be greatly influenced by just one person dropping out. In my class we had two fail, two drop out, one change to medical school.
14. Are there any resources to help students who are struggling? I believe so
15. What is the % first time board pass rate? What is the average score (if available)? Dang near 100% for just about every class year I can think of. That said, I think last year there was one person who failed their first attempt, but I can't really remember for sure.
16. When do you take the NDBE Part 1? Just after the end of 2nd year.
17. Does the school offer classes/review sessions to prepare for Part 1? Nope. I just kinda studied for a few days and winged it, and it turned out well enough. Seems like most people in my class did the same.
18. Do you get a block of time off before boards to study? If so, how long? If not, do you have to study simultaneously with classes? No, see above.
19. Do most people study in the University Library? Or does the place clear out right after school and everybody studies on their own? Some do (I did), some don't. Everyone develops their own tailored study habits, so some like the library and some like their own place. I tried to separate work and home, so I tried to keep studying at the library, and relaxing time at home.
20. Are patients readily available to fulfill clinical requirements or do you have to do a lot of work to get them in? Plenty of patients for most requirements. If you dont have something, your classmates will have extra and hand them off to you and vice verse.
21. Is it a hassle to get a chair once you get patients in? In your opinion, does your school have enough chairs? There are plenty of chairs, this is rarely an issue.
22. What are the clinical requirements to graduate? (number of crowns, fillings, etc...) Is it reasonably attainable or pretty difficult? Honestly, I should know these numbers, but I am too lazy to look them up. Reasonably attainable since I want to finish all of mine by Feb of my 4th year.
23. What types of opportunities do students have to explore different specialties? We have rotations in all the dental specialties, so there is plenty of time to see them. That said, chosing a specialty needs to be done around the end of the second year, so I would suggest go shadow during your second year to give you an idea of what you do and do not like beforehand.
24. Is there sufficent preparation for practice management? What career placement opportunites does your school offer? Not really to be honest... I would like to see more, but we do get a few classes during the last few months of 4th year.
25. What is the dress code at your school? Scrubs? For what years? First two years - whatever you want. Last two years will either be business casual, or scrubs. Anytime you are in clinic, even if you are not working will be either scrubs or business casual. I wear scrubs essentially every day since I don't want to stain/ruin a nice pair of chinos or dress shirt haha.
26. Is there much camaraderie between students in the same class? Do students generally associate with each other outside of school? I imagine this would change from class to class, but there has always been a lot of camaraderie in my class. A lot of us will all go out to happy hour, have a BBQ, just chill, or do whatever together. There will always be friend groups, but for the most part, we definitely like to hang out with one another.
27. What student organizations are most active? Not sure what this question means... There are a lot of student organizations, and a lot are quite active haha.
28. What are your opinions on the location of the dental school? Is finding housing an issue? Is safety an issue? Housing is very easy to find. Safety is absolutely a non-issue; a very safe area.
29. What do you not like about your dental school? The long hours required to get through it. Like any school, there will always be politics, and hoops to jump through. There will always be the occasional mean professor/classmate/patient/person you have to deal with on a somewhat regular basis. I wish scheduling patients was easier, but who doesn't? I wish I had more freedom in clinic, but now that I am a 4th year, I find that I do have a bit more freedom, so that is getting better. I guess the last thing that comes to mind is all the construction that is going on is a bit annoying (they are remodeling everything), but will be nice in the long run.
30. Any last words or advice? Dental school at UConn is very tough and will really put you to work, so it is important to make it a marathon, not a sprint. Know that you will have to jump through hoops to get where you want to go, and as long as you jump through them, you will get along just fine. Work hard, but remember to take time out of your schedule to relax a bit. Enjoy yourself, and be kind to everyone you meet, because you are stuck with them for the next 4 years of your life! Haha
2. Your Year (if you're not comfortable answering that, have you taken Part I of the NBDE?) 4th year, yes
3. What is your examination schedule like? Block Schedule (midterms and finals week) or several every week? Block for the basic medical sciences (1 4-5 hour exam every 8-12 weeks), and then intermittent exams for the dental classes
4. What is the hardest class? Why? Dental: Oral Pathology. Just have to memorize a bucket load of stuff. Overall: Probably MOD1, or OS1, or one of the med school exams
5. What is the easiest class? Why? Infection control. Because common sense.
6. Are class notes based primarily on textbooks? or based on lecture powerpoints made up by professors? Powerpoints. That said, a lot of notes are passed down from upper classmen.
7. Are traditional (paper) textbooks used or are they electronic? If electronic, do you prefer traditional textbooks? Very few textbooks used, but those used are traditional
8. What is the grading system? Pass/Fail/Honors? Letter Grades? Percentages? P/F in the strict sense. No honors, no percentiles, etc.
9. Are your classmates generally gunners and try to sabatoge each other? If not, is the culture one where everybody tries to help everybody out? Every cohort is different, but there will always be a gunner or two. That said, everyone is very helpful to each other and really tries hard to help out if they can.
10. Is there a notetaking service for lecture available? Not that I am aware of.
11. Is class attendance mandatory? Supposedly
12. In general, are teachers approachable for questions? Or are they for the most part very busy and unreachable (research, etc...)? Very approachable. Since the class size is so small (35-45 per year) it is hard to "hide" in the class. Also most professors will get to know you, so almost by default they become approachable.
13. What is the drop out rate? Once again, since class size is so small, the percentage will be greatly influenced by just one person dropping out. In my class we had two fail, two drop out, one change to medical school.
14. Are there any resources to help students who are struggling? I believe so
15. What is the % first time board pass rate? What is the average score (if available)? Dang near 100% for just about every class year I can think of. That said, I think last year there was one person who failed their first attempt, but I can't really remember for sure.
16. When do you take the NDBE Part 1? Just after the end of 2nd year.
17. Does the school offer classes/review sessions to prepare for Part 1? Nope. I just kinda studied for a few days and winged it, and it turned out well enough. Seems like most people in my class did the same.
18. Do you get a block of time off before boards to study? If so, how long? If not, do you have to study simultaneously with classes? No, see above.
19. Do most people study in the University Library? Or does the place clear out right after school and everybody studies on their own? Some do (I did), some don't. Everyone develops their own tailored study habits, so some like the library and some like their own place. I tried to separate work and home, so I tried to keep studying at the library, and relaxing time at home.
20. Are patients readily available to fulfill clinical requirements or do you have to do a lot of work to get them in? Plenty of patients for most requirements. If you dont have something, your classmates will have extra and hand them off to you and vice verse.
21. Is it a hassle to get a chair once you get patients in? In your opinion, does your school have enough chairs? There are plenty of chairs, this is rarely an issue.
22. What are the clinical requirements to graduate? (number of crowns, fillings, etc...) Is it reasonably attainable or pretty difficult? Honestly, I should know these numbers, but I am too lazy to look them up. Reasonably attainable since I want to finish all of mine by Feb of my 4th year.
23. What types of opportunities do students have to explore different specialties? We have rotations in all the dental specialties, so there is plenty of time to see them. That said, chosing a specialty needs to be done around the end of the second year, so I would suggest go shadow during your second year to give you an idea of what you do and do not like beforehand.
24. Is there sufficent preparation for practice management? What career placement opportunites does your school offer? Not really to be honest... I would like to see more, but we do get a few classes during the last few months of 4th year.
25. What is the dress code at your school? Scrubs? For what years? First two years - whatever you want. Last two years will either be business casual, or scrubs. Anytime you are in clinic, even if you are not working will be either scrubs or business casual. I wear scrubs essentially every day since I don't want to stain/ruin a nice pair of chinos or dress shirt haha.
26. Is there much camaraderie between students in the same class? Do students generally associate with each other outside of school? I imagine this would change from class to class, but there has always been a lot of camaraderie in my class. A lot of us will all go out to happy hour, have a BBQ, just chill, or do whatever together. There will always be friend groups, but for the most part, we definitely like to hang out with one another.
27. What student organizations are most active? Not sure what this question means... There are a lot of student organizations, and a lot are quite active haha.
28. What are your opinions on the location of the dental school? Is finding housing an issue? Is safety an issue? Housing is very easy to find. Safety is absolutely a non-issue; a very safe area.
29. What do you not like about your dental school? The long hours required to get through it. Like any school, there will always be politics, and hoops to jump through. There will always be the occasional mean professor/classmate/patient/person you have to deal with on a somewhat regular basis. I wish scheduling patients was easier, but who doesn't? I wish I had more freedom in clinic, but now that I am a 4th year, I find that I do have a bit more freedom, so that is getting better. I guess the last thing that comes to mind is all the construction that is going on is a bit annoying (they are remodeling everything), but will be nice in the long run.
30. Any last words or advice? Dental school at UConn is very tough and will really put you to work, so it is important to make it a marathon, not a sprint. Know that you will have to jump through hoops to get where you want to go, and as long as you jump through them, you will get along just fine. Work hard, but remember to take time out of your schedule to relax a bit. Enjoy yourself, and be kind to everyone you meet, because you are stuck with them for the next 4 years of your life! Haha
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bump!
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Done with dental school but I came through with the updated list.
Time flies can't believe I'm already a dentist, seems like just yesterday I making threads on SDN. GL, dentistry is freaking awesome. Feel free to PM me if you guys want any advice.
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1. Name of Your Dental School
UCSF
2. Your Year (if you're not comfortable answering that, have you taken Part I of the NBDE?)
℅ 2016
3. What is your examination schedule like? Block Schedule (midterms and finals week) or several every week?
First 2 years, several every week (more the first year than the second) and then block the last 2 years
4. What is the hardest class? Why?
We have a biomedical science stream and first year that is the hardest because of the sheer mass of information, not necessarily the content.
5. What is the easiest class? Why?
2nd year dental science because all of the previous exams are circulated and repeated
6. Are class notes based primarily on textbooks? or based on lecture powerpoints made up by professors?
Powerpoints. No one buys the textbooks beyond first year.
7. Are traditional (paper) textbooks used or are they electronic? If electronic, do you prefer traditional textbooks?
No
8. What is the grading system? Pass/Fail/Honors? Letter Grades? Percentages?
Letter 90=A, 80=B….etc
Pass/ fail/ high pass
9. Are your classmates generally gunners and try to sabatoge each other? If not, is the culture one where everybody tries to help everybody out?
My class has cliques and I wouldn't say they try to sabotage per se but they definitely look out for #1 rather than helping everybody out.
10. Is there a notetaking service for lecture available?
No. They record most of the lectures and they are available online.
11. Is class attendance mandatory?
Yes but it's not really enforced.
12. In general, are teachers approachable for questions? Or are they for the most part very busy and unreachable (research, etc…)?
Yes, they are very approachable and encourage questions. A few just aren't very good at answering them.
13. What is the drop out rate?
Very low
14. Are there any resources to help students who are struggling?
Yes, lots. The school does a lot for students that struggle during the didactic portion but not so much during the clinical years.
15. What is the % first time board pass rate? What is the average score (if available)?
Its really high but I don't know the %
16. When do you take the NDBE Part 1?
We don't get time off to take it so most people take it during summer after 1st year.
17. Does the school offer classes/review sessions to prepare for Part 1?
No
18. Do you get a block of time off before boards to study? If so, how long? If not, do you have to study simultaneously with classes?
No
19. Do most people study in the University Library? Or does the place clear out right after school and everybody studies on their own?
A lot of people study in the library
20. Are patients readily available to fulfill clinical requirements or do you have to do a lot of work to get them in?
No. Most patients can't pay and are really flaky
21. Is it a hassle to get a chair once you get patients in? In your opinion, does your school have enough chairs?
We have a decent number of chairs although, opening up chairs can be a pain because students will open up "phantom" chairs and fill them later once they get a real patient.
22. What are the clinical requirements to graduate? (number of crowns, fillings, etc...) Is it reasonably attainable or pretty difficult?
70 fillings, 14 crowns, 5 rem pros arches, 5 canals obturated, 42k production, 4 sealants, portfolio exams for fourth year. Everything is pretty attainable except for the portfolio. Portfolio is ridiculous.
23. What types of opportunities do students have to explore different specialties?
Everyone and their momma wants to specialize here.
24. Is there sufficent preparation for practice management? What career placement opportunites does your school offer?
Not really.
25. What is the dress code at your school? Scrubs? For what years?
Scrubs or business casual
26. Is there much camaraderie between students in the same class? Do students generally associate with each other outside of school?
Really cliquey but will go out with one another too - very social.
27. What student organizations are most active?
ASDA, SNDA, HSA, ZIPS, etc.
28. What are your opinions on the location of the dental school? Is finding housing an issue? Is safety an issue?
Finding housing is a huge issue. It's insanely expensive. A lot of students commute 1+ hours. Safety isn't a really issue.
29. What do you not like about your dental school?
The school does an awful job at taking student feedback into account. We are pretty much ignored here. The equipment is in bad shape and the staff all seem pretty unhappy with how they are treated. The whole atmosphere is pretty dreary and the morale is low. Not enough patients to fulfill requirements. Lots of cases are given to PG specialty programs. Some difficulty opening chairs, etc.
30. Any last words or advice?
It's really expensive to live here and the environment is a little oppressive. There is a strong bond between the students though. Weigh your options before coming here. I'm not entirely sure how we stack up as clinicians when we graduate. I think it depends on the person and what you make of your education. You can definitely get out of here not having learned much but exceeding the requirements or have difficulty fulfilling the numbers while taking your time and learning a lot.
UCSF
2. Your Year (if you're not comfortable answering that, have you taken Part I of the NBDE?)
℅ 2016
3. What is your examination schedule like? Block Schedule (midterms and finals week) or several every week?
First 2 years, several every week (more the first year than the second) and then block the last 2 years
4. What is the hardest class? Why?
We have a biomedical science stream and first year that is the hardest because of the sheer mass of information, not necessarily the content.
5. What is the easiest class? Why?
2nd year dental science because all of the previous exams are circulated and repeated
6. Are class notes based primarily on textbooks? or based on lecture powerpoints made up by professors?
Powerpoints. No one buys the textbooks beyond first year.
7. Are traditional (paper) textbooks used or are they electronic? If electronic, do you prefer traditional textbooks?
No
8. What is the grading system? Pass/Fail/Honors? Letter Grades? Percentages?
Letter 90=A, 80=B….etc
Pass/ fail/ high pass
9. Are your classmates generally gunners and try to sabatoge each other? If not, is the culture one where everybody tries to help everybody out?
My class has cliques and I wouldn't say they try to sabotage per se but they definitely look out for #1 rather than helping everybody out.
10. Is there a notetaking service for lecture available?
No. They record most of the lectures and they are available online.
11. Is class attendance mandatory?
Yes but it's not really enforced.
12. In general, are teachers approachable for questions? Or are they for the most part very busy and unreachable (research, etc…)?
Yes, they are very approachable and encourage questions. A few just aren't very good at answering them.
13. What is the drop out rate?
Very low
14. Are there any resources to help students who are struggling?
Yes, lots. The school does a lot for students that struggle during the didactic portion but not so much during the clinical years.
15. What is the % first time board pass rate? What is the average score (if available)?
Its really high but I don't know the %
16. When do you take the NDBE Part 1?
We don't get time off to take it so most people take it during summer after 1st year.
17. Does the school offer classes/review sessions to prepare for Part 1?
No
18. Do you get a block of time off before boards to study? If so, how long? If not, do you have to study simultaneously with classes?
No
19. Do most people study in the University Library? Or does the place clear out right after school and everybody studies on their own?
A lot of people study in the library
20. Are patients readily available to fulfill clinical requirements or do you have to do a lot of work to get them in?
No. Most patients can't pay and are really flaky
21. Is it a hassle to get a chair once you get patients in? In your opinion, does your school have enough chairs?
We have a decent number of chairs although, opening up chairs can be a pain because students will open up "phantom" chairs and fill them later once they get a real patient.
22. What are the clinical requirements to graduate? (number of crowns, fillings, etc...) Is it reasonably attainable or pretty difficult?
70 fillings, 14 crowns, 5 rem pros arches, 5 canals obturated, 42k production, 4 sealants, portfolio exams for fourth year. Everything is pretty attainable except for the portfolio. Portfolio is ridiculous.
23. What types of opportunities do students have to explore different specialties?
Everyone and their momma wants to specialize here.
24. Is there sufficent preparation for practice management? What career placement opportunites does your school offer?
Not really.
25. What is the dress code at your school? Scrubs? For what years?
Scrubs or business casual
26. Is there much camaraderie between students in the same class? Do students generally associate with each other outside of school?
Really cliquey but will go out with one another too - very social.
27. What student organizations are most active?
ASDA, SNDA, HSA, ZIPS, etc.
28. What are your opinions on the location of the dental school? Is finding housing an issue? Is safety an issue?
Finding housing is a huge issue. It's insanely expensive. A lot of students commute 1+ hours. Safety isn't a really issue.
29. What do you not like about your dental school?
The school does an awful job at taking student feedback into account. We are pretty much ignored here. The equipment is in bad shape and the staff all seem pretty unhappy with how they are treated. The whole atmosphere is pretty dreary and the morale is low. Not enough patients to fulfill requirements. Lots of cases are given to PG specialty programs. Some difficulty opening chairs, etc.
30. Any last words or advice?
It's really expensive to live here and the environment is a little oppressive. There is a strong bond between the students though. Weigh your options before coming here. I'm not entirely sure how we stack up as clinicians when we graduate. I think it depends on the person and what you make of your education. You can definitely get out of here not having learned much but exceeding the requirements or have difficulty fulfilling the numbers while taking your time and learning a lot.
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Can someone post updated info about University of Colorado?? I got in to both University of Colorado and Case Western and I cannot decide
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Kentucky anyone?
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- Feb 10, 2016
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- 4
1. Name of Your Dental School
LECOM
2. Your Year (if you're not comfortable answering that, have you taken Part I of the NBDE?)
junior
3. What is your examination schedule like? Block Schedule (midterms and finals week) or several every week?
Several throughout semester
4. What is the hardest class? Why?
gross & dental anatomy were the hardest of first year. first patient in denture clinic during first year was nerve racking as hell but awesome when you got to see your patient's reaction to their new smile. second year was academically way tougher than first, pharmacology was one caffeinated blur. course load eases up when you get into clinic
5. What is the easiest class? Why?
RPD
6. Are class notes based primarily on textbooks? or based on lecture powerpoints made up by professors?
Powerpoint
7. Are traditional (paper) textbooks used or are they electronic? If electronic, do you prefer traditional textbooks?
electronic.. prefer electronic I can find exactly what I'm looking for
8. What is the grading system? Pass/Fail/Honors? Letter Grades? Percentages?
pass/fail only, pass is anything equal to or above 75%
9. Are your classmates generally gunners and try to sabatoge each other? If not, is the culture one where everybody tries to help everybody out?
pass/fail makes gunning kind of pointless, lots of sharing between classmates
10. Is there a notetaking service for lecture available?
not that I've seen
11. Is class attendance mandatory?
YES, and any missed clinic time must be made up
12. In general, are teachers approachable for questions? Or are they for the most part very busy and unreachable (research, etc...)?
very approachable
13. What is the drop out rate?
none that I know of
14. Are there any resources to help students who are struggling?
there are student tutors available in the library
15. What is the % first time board pass rate? What is the average score (if available)?
around 96% for my class
16. When do you take the NDBE Part 1?
after 2nd year, most in april/may.. before clinic in june
17. Does the school offer classes/review sessions to prepare for Part 1?
school administers mock board exams to gauge progress
18. Do you get a block of time off before boards to study? If so, how long? If not, do you have to study simultaneously with classes?
schedule lets up significantly in March of second year
19. Do most people study in the University Library? Or does the place clear out right after school and everybody studies on their own?
some stay, most leave
20. Are patients readily available to fulfill clinical requirements or do you have to do a lot of work to get them in?
lots of patients
21. Is it a hassle to get a chair once you get patients in? In your opinion, does your school have enough chairs?
every student gets their own chair for all of third and 4th year, which is a huge perk
22. What are the clinical requirements to graduate? (number of crowns, fillings, etc...) Is it reasonably attainable or pretty difficult?
there are clinical competencies that must be completed before graduation
23. What types of opportunities do students have to explore different specialties?
we get courses on specialties but for hands on you gotta extern.. recently hired a periodontist, endo and omfs in clinic who will, under their supervision, allow students to perform procedures that would otherwise get referred out. Have to schedule patients on specific days the specialist is in your group practice and demonstrate competence.. have had classmates perform molar endo, tori removal etc.
24. Is there sufficient preparation for practice management? What career placement opportunites does your school offer?
Lots of networking opportunities through asda and other after school organizations, got to have some self motivation to take advantage, most leave campus after pbl or sim lab
25. What is the dress code at your school? Scrubs? For what years?
scrubs, different colors for different years
26. Is there much camaraderie between students in the same class? Do students generally associate with each other outside of school?
yes
27. What student organizations are most active?
probably asda
28. What are your opinions on the location of the dental school? Is finding housing an issue? Is safety an issue?
bradenton is OK, kind of boring but good to study
29. What do you not like about your dental school?
at first I hated PBL, but i realized that PBL is basically board prep.. instead of taking individual classes on biochem/physio/immuno we get tested on material from those subjects that tend to recur on boards.. PBL leaves lots of free time in schedule so there needs to be a level of self-discipline to succeed
30. Any last words or advice?
It sucks that we have to move for our 4th year but its nice not having competition from seniors or any post-doc residents stealing patients during 3rd year. lecom is a school that is clinic heavy, but there is a student research group if you're interested in that kind of stuff. Don't regret going here, was cheaper than the other private schools I got into. Clinic is awesome, especially if you're proactive and know your stuff you get to do some awesome procedures that other schools might refer to residents or out altogether. Recently heard some fourth year students (our first graduating class in 2016) matched into ortho, omfs and so on. Probably not going to match into the most known programs right away but if you want to specialize it can be done
LECOM
2. Your Year (if you're not comfortable answering that, have you taken Part I of the NBDE?)
junior
3. What is your examination schedule like? Block Schedule (midterms and finals week) or several every week?
Several throughout semester
4. What is the hardest class? Why?
gross & dental anatomy were the hardest of first year. first patient in denture clinic during first year was nerve racking as hell but awesome when you got to see your patient's reaction to their new smile. second year was academically way tougher than first, pharmacology was one caffeinated blur. course load eases up when you get into clinic
5. What is the easiest class? Why?
RPD
6. Are class notes based primarily on textbooks? or based on lecture powerpoints made up by professors?
Powerpoint
7. Are traditional (paper) textbooks used or are they electronic? If electronic, do you prefer traditional textbooks?
electronic.. prefer electronic I can find exactly what I'm looking for
8. What is the grading system? Pass/Fail/Honors? Letter Grades? Percentages?
pass/fail only, pass is anything equal to or above 75%
9. Are your classmates generally gunners and try to sabatoge each other? If not, is the culture one where everybody tries to help everybody out?
pass/fail makes gunning kind of pointless, lots of sharing between classmates
10. Is there a notetaking service for lecture available?
not that I've seen
11. Is class attendance mandatory?
YES, and any missed clinic time must be made up
12. In general, are teachers approachable for questions? Or are they for the most part very busy and unreachable (research, etc...)?
very approachable
13. What is the drop out rate?
none that I know of
14. Are there any resources to help students who are struggling?
there are student tutors available in the library
15. What is the % first time board pass rate? What is the average score (if available)?
around 96% for my class
16. When do you take the NDBE Part 1?
after 2nd year, most in april/may.. before clinic in june
17. Does the school offer classes/review sessions to prepare for Part 1?
school administers mock board exams to gauge progress
18. Do you get a block of time off before boards to study? If so, how long? If not, do you have to study simultaneously with classes?
schedule lets up significantly in March of second year
19. Do most people study in the University Library? Or does the place clear out right after school and everybody studies on their own?
some stay, most leave
20. Are patients readily available to fulfill clinical requirements or do you have to do a lot of work to get them in?
lots of patients
21. Is it a hassle to get a chair once you get patients in? In your opinion, does your school have enough chairs?
every student gets their own chair for all of third and 4th year, which is a huge perk
22. What are the clinical requirements to graduate? (number of crowns, fillings, etc...) Is it reasonably attainable or pretty difficult?
there are clinical competencies that must be completed before graduation
23. What types of opportunities do students have to explore different specialties?
we get courses on specialties but for hands on you gotta extern.. recently hired a periodontist, endo and omfs in clinic who will, under their supervision, allow students to perform procedures that would otherwise get referred out. Have to schedule patients on specific days the specialist is in your group practice and demonstrate competence.. have had classmates perform molar endo, tori removal etc.
24. Is there sufficient preparation for practice management? What career placement opportunites does your school offer?
Lots of networking opportunities through asda and other after school organizations, got to have some self motivation to take advantage, most leave campus after pbl or sim lab
25. What is the dress code at your school? Scrubs? For what years?
scrubs, different colors for different years
26. Is there much camaraderie between students in the same class? Do students generally associate with each other outside of school?
yes
27. What student organizations are most active?
probably asda
28. What are your opinions on the location of the dental school? Is finding housing an issue? Is safety an issue?
bradenton is OK, kind of boring but good to study
29. What do you not like about your dental school?
at first I hated PBL, but i realized that PBL is basically board prep.. instead of taking individual classes on biochem/physio/immuno we get tested on material from those subjects that tend to recur on boards.. PBL leaves lots of free time in schedule so there needs to be a level of self-discipline to succeed
30. Any last words or advice?
It sucks that we have to move for our 4th year but its nice not having competition from seniors or any post-doc residents stealing patients during 3rd year. lecom is a school that is clinic heavy, but there is a student research group if you're interested in that kind of stuff. Don't regret going here, was cheaper than the other private schools I got into. Clinic is awesome, especially if you're proactive and know your stuff you get to do some awesome procedures that other schools might refer to residents or out altogether. Recently heard some fourth year students (our first graduating class in 2016) matched into ortho, omfs and so on. Probably not going to match into the most known programs right away but if you want to specialize it can be done
- Joined
- Nov 2, 2014
- Messages
- 305
- Reaction score
- 426
Kentucky...
- Joined
- Feb 18, 2016
- Messages
- 55
- Reaction score
- 50
and update on Case Western Reserve University please!
- Joined
- Sep 30, 2013
- Messages
- 2,256
- Reaction score
- 3,335
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Last edited:
- Joined
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- Messages
- 305
- Reaction score
- 426
Nice! Yea I was very happy with UK and Lexington, Im really looking forward to it
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- Aug 4, 2012
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- 198
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- 23
University of Michigan School of Dentistry
2. Your Year (if you're not comfortable answering that, have you taken Part I of the NBDE?)
D3 (Third year) taken Part 1 of NBDE
3. What is your examination schedule like? Block Schedule (midterms and finals week) or several every week?
D1/D2 year you'll have about 1-4 quiz/exams a week. 1 quiz/exam week is an easy week for us.
4. What is the hardest class? Why?
Genetics. Just alot of detail and information for one class.
5. What is the easiest class? Why?
There are plenty of easy classes throughout, so can't really pick out one.
6. Are class notes based primarily on textbooks? or based on lecture powerpoints made up by professors?
Primarily on note based. There are few classes I used textbooks to supplement but only read few chapters.
7. Are traditional (paper) textbooks used or are they electronic? If electronic, do you prefer traditional textbooks?
Mostly found electronic for didactic. But it's nice to have traditional textbooks for clinical textbooks.
8. What is the grading system? Pass/Fail/Honors? Letter Grades? Percentages?
Letter grades
9. Are your classmates generally gunners and try to sabatoge each other? If not, is the culture one where everybody tries to help everybody out?
There isn't anybody who would try to sabotage each other. There are some gunners here and there but I would think every school to have some.
10. Is there a notetaking service for lecture available?
No, but many classmates are nice enough to share their notes if you ask.
11. Is class attendance mandatory?
It is mandatory and mostly enforced by a clicker system.
12. In general, are teachers approachable for questions? Or are they for the most part very busy and unreachable (research, etc...)?
Even the most renowned professors have been willing to help students individually with our questions (after class/office hours). Many people might think that we may have professors who try to "pimp" their students. But that definitely isn't the case at our school. I love my faculty.
13. What is the drop out rate?
We started with 107 people I believe. After our first semester, about 4-5 dropped out. Only 1 because of an academic issue. Many of them were because they found out that dentistry isn't what they were looking for as a profession. Unless you screw up majorly, school will do everything to keep you. They even hire tutors(upper classmen) for you.
14. Are there any resources to help students who are struggling?
See above.
15. What is the % first time board pass rate? What is the average score (if available)?
That percentage was never provided to us. But if you study the right material, you can pass with just 1 week of studying.
16. When do you take the NDBE Part 1?
School requires you to finish your didactic courses, so you have to take it after your winter semester of D2 year.
17. Does the school offer classes/review sessions to prepare for Part 1?
There are definitely materials that are relevant to Part 1 but there are better materials out there that are much more concise and target NBDE 1 materials. I'd be surprise to find out if any dental student studied all of their didactic courses for Part 1.
18. Do you get a block of time off before boards to study? If so, how long? If not, do you have to study simultaneously with classes?
We don't get any time off. You decide on your own when you want to study for it. I studied during my spring break and took it.
19. Do most people study in the University Library? Or does the place clear out right after school and everybody studies on their own?
Alot of my classmates studied in the school library during our D1/D2 years but not so much now.
20. Are patients readily available to fulfill clinical requirements or do you have to do a lot of work to get them in?
Patients are available but it's pretty random what kind of patient/procedures you'll get to do for the patients who are assigned to you. If you need certain procedures, you can request for more.
21. Is it a hassle to get a chair once you get patients in? In your opinion, does your school have enough chairs?
If you plan in advance, it's not difficult to get a chair (i.e. schedule ~2 weeks in advance) and yes, we schedule our own patients.
22. What are the clinical requirements to graduate? (number of crowns, fillings, etc...) Is it reasonably attainable or pretty difficult?
we don't have set numbers of requirements. But we have to pass certain number of test cases every semester. For test cases, faculty will grade you on your performances and if it's not adequate you may fail. But you can do the same test case again until it averages out to 70% or higher.
23. What types of opportunities do students have to explore different specialties?
We pretty much of all of the specialties, so it's really up to students if they want to take advantage of these opportunities by approaching the right faculty. They definitely expose you to each specialty enough to figure out if you're interested in them or not.
24. Is there sufficent preparation for practice management? What career placement opportunites does your school offer?
We have few practice management courses. In terms of career placement, the school sends out some opportunities to students/recent grads. You'll also have many corporate dental offices visiting you to recruit.
25. What is the dress code at your school? Scrubs? For what years?
Policy is scrubs or professional clothing (no jeans, no tights, no boots) but if you're not in clinic, they don't bug you about it.
26. Is there much camaraderie between students in the same class? Do students generally associate with each other outside of school?
absolutely, everyone's willing to help each other and hangout outside out school all the time.
27. What student organizations are most active?
ASDA mostly
28. What are your opinions on the location of the dental school? Is finding housing an issue? Is safety an issue?
Long and cold winter sucks. It's a small town with boat load of students so housing is relatively expensive for midwest (but nothing like CA/NY). Football season is fun.
29. What do you not like about your dental school?
Pretty much year round for 4 years. I believe we pretty much have same # of days as UoP in an academic calendar year, but ours is for 4 years.
We have to schedule our own patient, which could get frustrating at times (i.e. getting a hold of patients who never pick-up or return phone calls)
30. Any last words or advice?
2. Your Year (if you're not comfortable answering that, have you taken Part I of the NBDE?)
D3 (Third year) taken Part 1 of NBDE
3. What is your examination schedule like? Block Schedule (midterms and finals week) or several every week?
D1/D2 year you'll have about 1-4 quiz/exams a week. 1 quiz/exam week is an easy week for us.
4. What is the hardest class? Why?
Genetics. Just alot of detail and information for one class.
5. What is the easiest class? Why?
There are plenty of easy classes throughout, so can't really pick out one.
6. Are class notes based primarily on textbooks? or based on lecture powerpoints made up by professors?
Primarily on note based. There are few classes I used textbooks to supplement but only read few chapters.
7. Are traditional (paper) textbooks used or are they electronic? If electronic, do you prefer traditional textbooks?
Mostly found electronic for didactic. But it's nice to have traditional textbooks for clinical textbooks.
8. What is the grading system? Pass/Fail/Honors? Letter Grades? Percentages?
Letter grades
9. Are your classmates generally gunners and try to sabatoge each other? If not, is the culture one where everybody tries to help everybody out?
There isn't anybody who would try to sabotage each other. There are some gunners here and there but I would think every school to have some.
10. Is there a notetaking service for lecture available?
No, but many classmates are nice enough to share their notes if you ask.
11. Is class attendance mandatory?
It is mandatory and mostly enforced by a clicker system.
12. In general, are teachers approachable for questions? Or are they for the most part very busy and unreachable (research, etc...)?
Even the most renowned professors have been willing to help students individually with our questions (after class/office hours). Many people might think that we may have professors who try to "pimp" their students. But that definitely isn't the case at our school. I love my faculty.
13. What is the drop out rate?
We started with 107 people I believe. After our first semester, about 4-5 dropped out. Only 1 because of an academic issue. Many of them were because they found out that dentistry isn't what they were looking for as a profession. Unless you screw up majorly, school will do everything to keep you. They even hire tutors(upper classmen) for you.
14. Are there any resources to help students who are struggling?
See above.
15. What is the % first time board pass rate? What is the average score (if available)?
That percentage was never provided to us. But if you study the right material, you can pass with just 1 week of studying.
16. When do you take the NDBE Part 1?
School requires you to finish your didactic courses, so you have to take it after your winter semester of D2 year.
17. Does the school offer classes/review sessions to prepare for Part 1?
There are definitely materials that are relevant to Part 1 but there are better materials out there that are much more concise and target NBDE 1 materials. I'd be surprise to find out if any dental student studied all of their didactic courses for Part 1.
18. Do you get a block of time off before boards to study? If so, how long? If not, do you have to study simultaneously with classes?
We don't get any time off. You decide on your own when you want to study for it. I studied during my spring break and took it.
19. Do most people study in the University Library? Or does the place clear out right after school and everybody studies on their own?
Alot of my classmates studied in the school library during our D1/D2 years but not so much now.
20. Are patients readily available to fulfill clinical requirements or do you have to do a lot of work to get them in?
Patients are available but it's pretty random what kind of patient/procedures you'll get to do for the patients who are assigned to you. If you need certain procedures, you can request for more.
21. Is it a hassle to get a chair once you get patients in? In your opinion, does your school have enough chairs?
If you plan in advance, it's not difficult to get a chair (i.e. schedule ~2 weeks in advance) and yes, we schedule our own patients.
22. What are the clinical requirements to graduate? (number of crowns, fillings, etc...) Is it reasonably attainable or pretty difficult?
we don't have set numbers of requirements. But we have to pass certain number of test cases every semester. For test cases, faculty will grade you on your performances and if it's not adequate you may fail. But you can do the same test case again until it averages out to 70% or higher.
23. What types of opportunities do students have to explore different specialties?
We pretty much of all of the specialties, so it's really up to students if they want to take advantage of these opportunities by approaching the right faculty. They definitely expose you to each specialty enough to figure out if you're interested in them or not.
24. Is there sufficent preparation for practice management? What career placement opportunites does your school offer?
We have few practice management courses. In terms of career placement, the school sends out some opportunities to students/recent grads. You'll also have many corporate dental offices visiting you to recruit.
25. What is the dress code at your school? Scrubs? For what years?
Policy is scrubs or professional clothing (no jeans, no tights, no boots) but if you're not in clinic, they don't bug you about it.
26. Is there much camaraderie between students in the same class? Do students generally associate with each other outside of school?
absolutely, everyone's willing to help each other and hangout outside out school all the time.
27. What student organizations are most active?
ASDA mostly
28. What are your opinions on the location of the dental school? Is finding housing an issue? Is safety an issue?
Long and cold winter sucks. It's a small town with boat load of students so housing is relatively expensive for midwest (but nothing like CA/NY). Football season is fun.
29. What do you not like about your dental school?
Pretty much year round for 4 years. I believe we pretty much have same # of days as UoP in an academic calendar year, but ours is for 4 years.
We have to schedule our own patient, which could get frustrating at times (i.e. getting a hold of patients who never pick-up or return phone calls)
30. Any last words or advice?
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can someone else share their opinons on penn?
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Bump! Anyone from UT-Houston?
I have browsed the forums of SDN for years but never felt compelled to contribute as I do now, having graduated dental school, having copius amounts of time on my hands....
Also my school is ever evolving so this post will only be valid for about a year.
1. Name of Your Dental School
Western University of Health Sciences
College of dental medicine
2. Your Year (if you're not comfortable answering that, have you taken Part I of the NBDE?)
Graduated 2016
3. What is your examination schedule like? Block Schedule (midterms and finals week) or several every week?
Primary medical classes are taken in quasi annual block form, so one class every 8 weeks, looking at a quiz every week and a test every two to three weeks. Not really many cumulative finals in that area
Dental classes are on thier own schedule. You begin prepping your first day, you have drilling projects going on at your pace with an utlimate deadline. (get 20 preps approved by instructor in 3 weeks. you could get them done in one day but not likely, deadlines are often extended) Typically dental classes have one midterm and one final a semester.
4. What is the hardest class? Why?
IDIT, although I took it with medical students and at this point the dental school teaches all the curriculum. Whats really difficult is not the material its not burning out from the coarse load. Enjoy your weekends to the fullest!
5. What is the easiest class? Why?
Pharm, but also a strange reason... It is way too comprehensive for a dentists needs and taught in a week, and during the time you're likely studying for NBDE I. So I just paid close attention in lecture, didn't study, everyone bombed the test, but tests are curved so in the end I got an A from the curve.
6. Are class notes based primarily on textbooks? or based on lecture powerpoints made up by professors?
Professor powerpoints... mind you most dentists did not intend on being teachers, it is their second job so not thier best work.... all lectures are recorded and the best students consult teachers during office hours to get a better understanding or rewatch lectures. Often the textbook gives you a conflicting answer so it is not advised.
7. Are traditional (paper) textbooks used or are they electronic? If electronic, do you prefer traditional textbooks?
Electronic.... see you later $5000
8. What is the grading system? Pass/Fail/Honors? Letter Grades? Percentages?
Letter grades, no rounding.
9. Are your classmates generally gunners and try to sabatoge each other? If not, is the culture one where everybody tries to help everybody out?
Each class has a very different dynamic but generally its friendly and helpful. Having gunners is not unique or devoid of one school. Commonly, early in the first year, some random will sabotage a group of classmates trying to help everyone out. This has happened in 3 out of 6 classes. Remember many student's competitive attitude is part of their personality. Find people you can trust, but do not jeopardize your position in dental school
10. Is there a notetaking service for lecture available?
yes
11. Is class attendance mandatory?
...if a tree falls in the forest....
12. In general, are teachers approachable for questions? Or are they for the most part very busy and unreachable (research, etc...)?
VERY!
13. What is the drop out rate?
No drop outs. People are held back for handskills, mostly. The school really goes the extra mile to keep you in.
14. Are there any resources to help students who are struggling?
yes!
15. What is the % first time board pass rate? What is the average score (if available)?
no idea, remember you saw this info in college, and on the DAT, and in dental school so usually failures are personal issues such as people going through a divorce. Unfortunately life and school exams still go on as you are studying for NDBE I. Plan your test date accordingly.
16. When do you take the NDBE Part 1?
Spring break, we had every friday off and many half days in january and february so plenty of time to study.
read first aid once. DID ALL THE PRACTICE TESTS IN 20 YEARS, and had some good friends in the class above and mine to help. If you are hitting a 70% on the practice tests consistently you are good.
17. Does the school offer classes/review sessions to prepare for Part 1?
Sort of
18. Do you get a block of time off before boards to study? If so, how long? If not, do you have to study simultaneously with classes?
No, still lots of studying to be had. If you are trying to specialize plan on taking your boards as late as possible perhaps after a summer break.
19. Do most people study in the University Library? Or does the place clear out right after school and everybody studies on their own?
School has many study rooms, a library, and the Claremont colleges nearby are a great place to study. Need a friend with wifi access though.
20. Are patients readily available to fulfill clinical requirements or do you have to do a lot of work to get them in?
SO many patients, you have a patient care coordinator for each group of about 15 students who does the scheduling. No specialties so you do SOOOOOOOOOOOO much work. Students have placed implants, surgical and full mouth extractions are a regular staple, Molar endo is prevalent, Long span bridges, CAD/CAM onlay on a third molar... if you can dream it and most importantly get your patient to pay for it, YOU CAN DO IT!
21. Is it a hassle to get a chair once you get patients in? In your opinion, does your school have enough chairs?
NO! its a hassle to get some time off!
School has a good amount of chairs, in my opinion ideal class size for WUCDM is 65. Clinic sessions are M-Th 8-5 and F 8-12. Seniors have clinic monday afternoon, all day tuesday, wednesday morning, thursday afternoon, and friday morning. Seniors are encouraged to schedule 2 patients a session or 4 a day. Seniors also do community clinic rotations for 8 weeks working in offices seeing around 10 patients a day. There is also a week long rotation about 2x a year in clinic where your operate two chairs seeing 8 patients a day.
as a third year, you get the rest of the clinic times, plus glorious rotations like radiology, administration, specialty assisting, and team clinic assistant.... But you work as a team, 3rd and 4th years are associates so if your 4th year associate is tired, doesn't want to do something, or wants to go to vegas they will give you their chair that day.
22. What are the clinical requirements to graduate? (number of crowns, fillings, etc...) Is it reasonably attainable or pretty difficult?
Clinical exams in class IIs, Class IIIs, crowns, removable prosth, extraction, S/Rp, etc. No minimum but usually you do not get to attempt with out doing about 5. If you fail the first attempt it reduces your max grade.
23. What types of opportunities do students have to explore different specialties?
There are electives you can take to increase your involvement in the specialties, not to mention we have numerous clinics in schools and underserved areas.
24. Is there sufficient preparation for practice management? What career placement opportunities does your school offer?
We have a whole course on PM for 3 years. I recommend talking to as many old dentists as you can and ask for advice. Our teachers offer great advice all the time. There are many vendor fairs where you can find a corporate job.
Many of the teachers are so open to having a private meeting with you to review your resume, website, job offer, you name it! Very helpful! probably 20 teachers have looked at my website and at least 4 have read through the job offers I was considering.
25. What is the dress code at your school? Scrubs? For what years?
Professional. No toms. Ties almost always. 4 years.
26. Is there much camaraderie between students in the same class? Do students generally associate with each other outside of school?
Again variable by class.
27. What student organizations are most active?
DSD, AAWD, ASDA
28. What are your opinions on the location of the dental school? Is finding housing an issue? Is safety an issue?
Safety is an issue. But any school with lots of patients is going to have this issue, trade offs... Live in claremont or upland. Some students live in downtown LA or in orange county beaches. Wait until your 2nd or 3rd year to see if this is for you.
29. What do you not like about your dental school?
The lab.
30. Any last words or advice?[/QUOTE]
Living in southern california is a dream as a student! if you want to be a GP, get ready for the busiest and most fun times of your life! if you want to specialize, you can at least go to disney land that one free day you have! Don't forget to enjoy your life, its easy to get wrapped up in dental school and all the volunteering but when it comes to talking to my friends, family, and patients, they can't relate to that. Its valuable to have other life experiences.
Also my school is ever evolving so this post will only be valid for about a year.
1. Name of Your Dental School
Western University of Health Sciences
College of dental medicine
2. Your Year (if you're not comfortable answering that, have you taken Part I of the NBDE?)
Graduated 2016
3. What is your examination schedule like? Block Schedule (midterms and finals week) or several every week?
Primary medical classes are taken in quasi annual block form, so one class every 8 weeks, looking at a quiz every week and a test every two to three weeks. Not really many cumulative finals in that area
Dental classes are on thier own schedule. You begin prepping your first day, you have drilling projects going on at your pace with an utlimate deadline. (get 20 preps approved by instructor in 3 weeks. you could get them done in one day but not likely, deadlines are often extended) Typically dental classes have one midterm and one final a semester.
4. What is the hardest class? Why?
IDIT, although I took it with medical students and at this point the dental school teaches all the curriculum. Whats really difficult is not the material its not burning out from the coarse load. Enjoy your weekends to the fullest!
5. What is the easiest class? Why?
Pharm, but also a strange reason... It is way too comprehensive for a dentists needs and taught in a week, and during the time you're likely studying for NBDE I. So I just paid close attention in lecture, didn't study, everyone bombed the test, but tests are curved so in the end I got an A from the curve.
6. Are class notes based primarily on textbooks? or based on lecture powerpoints made up by professors?
Professor powerpoints... mind you most dentists did not intend on being teachers, it is their second job so not thier best work.... all lectures are recorded and the best students consult teachers during office hours to get a better understanding or rewatch lectures. Often the textbook gives you a conflicting answer so it is not advised.
7. Are traditional (paper) textbooks used or are they electronic? If electronic, do you prefer traditional textbooks?
Electronic.... see you later $5000
8. What is the grading system? Pass/Fail/Honors? Letter Grades? Percentages?
Letter grades, no rounding.
9. Are your classmates generally gunners and try to sabatoge each other? If not, is the culture one where everybody tries to help everybody out?
Each class has a very different dynamic but generally its friendly and helpful. Having gunners is not unique or devoid of one school. Commonly, early in the first year, some random will sabotage a group of classmates trying to help everyone out. This has happened in 3 out of 6 classes. Remember many student's competitive attitude is part of their personality. Find people you can trust, but do not jeopardize your position in dental school
10. Is there a notetaking service for lecture available?
yes
11. Is class attendance mandatory?
...if a tree falls in the forest....
12. In general, are teachers approachable for questions? Or are they for the most part very busy and unreachable (research, etc...)?
VERY!
13. What is the drop out rate?
No drop outs. People are held back for handskills, mostly. The school really goes the extra mile to keep you in.
14. Are there any resources to help students who are struggling?
yes!
15. What is the % first time board pass rate? What is the average score (if available)?
no idea, remember you saw this info in college, and on the DAT, and in dental school so usually failures are personal issues such as people going through a divorce. Unfortunately life and school exams still go on as you are studying for NDBE I. Plan your test date accordingly.
16. When do you take the NDBE Part 1?
Spring break, we had every friday off and many half days in january and february so plenty of time to study.
read first aid once. DID ALL THE PRACTICE TESTS IN 20 YEARS, and had some good friends in the class above and mine to help. If you are hitting a 70% on the practice tests consistently you are good.
17. Does the school offer classes/review sessions to prepare for Part 1?
Sort of
18. Do you get a block of time off before boards to study? If so, how long? If not, do you have to study simultaneously with classes?
No, still lots of studying to be had. If you are trying to specialize plan on taking your boards as late as possible perhaps after a summer break.
19. Do most people study in the University Library? Or does the place clear out right after school and everybody studies on their own?
School has many study rooms, a library, and the Claremont colleges nearby are a great place to study. Need a friend with wifi access though.
20. Are patients readily available to fulfill clinical requirements or do you have to do a lot of work to get them in?
SO many patients, you have a patient care coordinator for each group of about 15 students who does the scheduling. No specialties so you do SOOOOOOOOOOOO much work. Students have placed implants, surgical and full mouth extractions are a regular staple, Molar endo is prevalent, Long span bridges, CAD/CAM onlay on a third molar... if you can dream it and most importantly get your patient to pay for it, YOU CAN DO IT!
21. Is it a hassle to get a chair once you get patients in? In your opinion, does your school have enough chairs?
NO! its a hassle to get some time off!
School has a good amount of chairs, in my opinion ideal class size for WUCDM is 65. Clinic sessions are M-Th 8-5 and F 8-12. Seniors have clinic monday afternoon, all day tuesday, wednesday morning, thursday afternoon, and friday morning. Seniors are encouraged to schedule 2 patients a session or 4 a day. Seniors also do community clinic rotations for 8 weeks working in offices seeing around 10 patients a day. There is also a week long rotation about 2x a year in clinic where your operate two chairs seeing 8 patients a day.
as a third year, you get the rest of the clinic times, plus glorious rotations like radiology, administration, specialty assisting, and team clinic assistant.... But you work as a team, 3rd and 4th years are associates so if your 4th year associate is tired, doesn't want to do something, or wants to go to vegas they will give you their chair that day.
22. What are the clinical requirements to graduate? (number of crowns, fillings, etc...) Is it reasonably attainable or pretty difficult?
Clinical exams in class IIs, Class IIIs, crowns, removable prosth, extraction, S/Rp, etc. No minimum but usually you do not get to attempt with out doing about 5. If you fail the first attempt it reduces your max grade.
23. What types of opportunities do students have to explore different specialties?
There are electives you can take to increase your involvement in the specialties, not to mention we have numerous clinics in schools and underserved areas.
24. Is there sufficient preparation for practice management? What career placement opportunities does your school offer?
We have a whole course on PM for 3 years. I recommend talking to as many old dentists as you can and ask for advice. Our teachers offer great advice all the time. There are many vendor fairs where you can find a corporate job.
Many of the teachers are so open to having a private meeting with you to review your resume, website, job offer, you name it! Very helpful! probably 20 teachers have looked at my website and at least 4 have read through the job offers I was considering.
25. What is the dress code at your school? Scrubs? For what years?
Professional. No toms. Ties almost always. 4 years.
26. Is there much camaraderie between students in the same class? Do students generally associate with each other outside of school?
Again variable by class.
27. What student organizations are most active?
DSD, AAWD, ASDA
28. What are your opinions on the location of the dental school? Is finding housing an issue? Is safety an issue?
Safety is an issue. But any school with lots of patients is going to have this issue, trade offs... Live in claremont or upland. Some students live in downtown LA or in orange county beaches. Wait until your 2nd or 3rd year to see if this is for you.
29. What do you not like about your dental school?
The lab.
30. Any last words or advice?[/QUOTE]
Living in southern california is a dream as a student! if you want to be a GP, get ready for the busiest and most fun times of your life! if you want to specialize, you can at least go to disney land that one free day you have! Don't forget to enjoy your life, its easy to get wrapped up in dental school and all the volunteering but when it comes to talking to my friends, family, and patients, they can't relate to that. Its valuable to have other life experiences.
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