The Interview

The interview is an important part of the selection process. Basically the admissions commitee has decided you are capable of doing the work and would like to meet you, the person. Interviews can vary from informal (one to one interview) to quite intimidating (interviewed by a panel). Some schools (LSU) may even ask you to carve a tooth from a giant piece of chalk. Usually an interview could last from 30 to 60 minutes depending on how much they like OR dislike you. Below are some tips to consider:

• make sure your appearance is impeccable (make sure you fit in). First impressions are long lasting.
• personal hygiene is a plus!
• have an answer to why you want to be a dentist. Please be original and don’t say “I want to help people”.
• know what your long range plans are (private practice, research, teaching, etc.).
• know the profession. Check out dental careers on the ADA site.
• ask intelligent questions (2 to 4).
• be confident and remain calm.

Ok, easier said then done. If you are a bordeline case (DAT scores at 17-18) you are probably scared to death because you know everything thing is riding on the interview. You are probably right. All I can say to you is practice, video tape yourself or even have a friend interview you. So once the interview is over, how long does it take for them to get back to you? Well that depends. Normally, after a series of interviews are conducted the committee meets (1-2 weeks after the interview). Excellent students are sent acceptances immediately (within 2 to 4 weeks of the interview) while the rest of the applicants are left in limbo until all interviews have been conducted. Try calling the admissions office to see if they can give you a timeline as to when they will respond. Better yet, try to call someone on the admissions committee (don't be a pest though). Be patient. You never know, you could be accepted a day before matriculation! It has happened before.