"Dentistry requires a mental and physical work ethic which will show up in your academic progress, personal pursuits, and general preparation for dental school."

Comments to High School Students

Work hard: Dentistry requires a mental and physical work ethic which will show up in your academic progress, personal development, and general preparation for dental school. You are forming habits in high school that set the foundation for college.

Classes: In college you will be taking many science courses along with your general requirements. Success in these classes will be important to get accepted into dental school and excel once there. While in high school, conscientious preparation in the following subjects will set a foundation for your future:

Biology
General Chemistry
Organic Chemistry
Physics

Ask: Ask your dentist what it's like to be a dentist and to go to dental school. Why? You will gain a broader perspective of the career and the joys and stress which come with it. For some, this will provide further motivation. You'll have a clearer goal and be more informed when your interviewer asks you "Why do you want to be a dentist?" For others, this could help you to avoid heading down the wrong path only to realize that you ended up where you might not want to be.

Observe: Go to a local dentist and tell him or her that you are considering dentistry as a career. Ask if you can come in and observe. We have never had a dentist say no (and if one does, move to the next one). Also, find out what he or she wants you to wear and how far in advance you need to contact them. Why? There is nothing that can give you a feel for dentistry like being in the office staring down at people's mouths and seeing what you will really do.

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