Overall, applicants ranked the school in the top 29% of interviews, indicating it is moderately regarded. They found the interview generally impressive with a low stress level and felt they did well.
Most respondents rank the facilities as above average.
How do you rank this school among ALL other schools?
Most respondents rank this school above all other schools.
How do you rank this school among other schools to which you've applied?
Most respondents rank this school above other schools they applied to.
0 = Below, 10 = Above
What is your ranking of this school's location?
Most respondents rate the school location as good.
0 = Bad, 10 = Great
How is the friendliness of the admissions office?
Most respondents said the admissions office was friendly.
What is your ranking of this area's cultural life?
Most respondents rate the areaโs cultural life as good.
0 = Bad, 10 = Great
How is the responsiveness of the admissions office?
Most respondents said the admissions office was responsive.
๐ฌ Interview Questions โผ
What is one of the specific questions they asked you?
The most commonly asked interview questions at medical schools include inquiries about the candidate's motivation for pursuing dentistry, experiences such as shadowing and research, future plans, strengths and weaknesses, and interests outside of academics. Responses suggest a mix of traditional questions and more conversational approaches, with some applicants experiencing MMI formats possibly involving nondisclosure agreements.
Why dentistry? Why do you want to be a dentist and not a hygienist?
Since you graduated from college in 2007 and are now just applying to dental schools, what is the reason for that and what have you been doing in that span of time between graduating and applying?
"so how's school going for you this semester?" (i've been out of college for two years and my essay described all the research i've done. she didn't read my application)
Students said most interesting question asked at Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine discussed a wide range of topics including ethical dilemmas, personal interests, reasons for choosing dentistry, and specific details from their applications. The interviews seemed conversational for the most part, with some applicants mentioning questions related to their hobbies, experiences, and future goals.
During a test you see that someone pulls out a piece of paper, looks at it, and writes something down on their test. What do you do?
Nothing was to out of the ordinary. The interviewer had two prepared questions that the ADCOMS wanted to know about (info on my app.)(have i graduated?...Classes i am taking)
It was more of a conversation and it was great! Nothing really interesting(As in something I had to think before answering)was asked. They were questions about my life and I was made very comfortable throughout the interview. It could have been shorter...but I just had so much to talk. And the interviewer was very patient while I spoke.
Are you going to be able to handle being broke? (I have been working for a few years, so this was directed at the transition to not having any income once I start dental school)
He asked me no "real" questions. He looked through my file and commented on my essay, gpa, etc... He asked what I wanted to know about BU. He made sure that I was very comfortable saying, "this is a very informal interview...we are like family here."
Students said the most difficult question asked at Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine discussed various topics such as top choice schools, time management in dental school, reasons for choosing dentistry over medicine, shadowing experiences, and GPA fluctuations. Additionally, responses indicate that the interview format may have been an MMI (Multiple Mini Interview) as some participants mentioned a conversational style and lack of challenging questions, potentially due to nondisclosure agreements.
What is your top choice school? Tell me straight, your grades show that it is definitely not BU.
none at all. i was pretty much only asked 1 question (above). the interviewer just told me his thoughts of the school, and we just kind of went from there. i wasn't asked anything about why i wanted to go to dental school or why i liked the school. i kinda brought it upon myself to talk about that. very very conversational and laid back.
why is your Part 1 score JUST 87...what should I say?? the scoring was not done properly OR I didn't study enough OR The topics I had prepared were not asked in the exam!!! BS!!!
there really aren't any difficult questions. most of the questions are what you see on this website. The whole interview process was more like a conversation.
None were difficult...It was very conversational and laid back. I had the feeling that they already had there opinion of me one way or the other before the interview. They just wanted to make sure i was not a outcast.
nothing, since i was prepared for this ...but i would assume it's - why did u apply to so many schools... so u have to justify why u have crappy grades...lol
There were no treacherous questions. Dr Calabrese wasn't trying to "stump" me rather he honestly just wanted to get to know me and the other candidates he was interviewing
What do you do to reduce stress?
(this is not a very difficult question, so I guess I am trying to say there were not any questions that were too difficult)
Most respondents had an interview of 20 - 30 minutes.
How did the interview impress you?
Most respondents felt positively about their interview.
How many people interviewed you?
Most respondents were interviewed by 1 person.
What was the stress level of the interview?
Most respondents rated their interview as low stress.
How you think you did?
Most respondents thought they performed well at the interview.
What was the style of the interview?
Most respondents had a one-on-one interview.
What type of interview was it?
Most respondents had an open file interview.
Was this interview in-person or virtual?
Most respondents had a virtual interview.
Data includes both pre- and post-COVID interviews.
Where did the interview take place?
Most respondents were interviewed at the school.
How did you prepare for the interview?
Applicants commonly prepared for their interviews by utilizing resources like SDN, mock interviews, and researching the school's website. Many also reviewed their application materials, practiced common interview questions, and sought advice from current or former students to feel more confident and prepared.
Went to the in person tour and info session and did mock interviews
SDN interview feedback, BU website, ADEA official guide to dental schools, a few random interview books with sample questions which i practiced and video taped on my webcam
Read the BU website, remember as much info as possible, come up with questions before going to the interview, figuring out whether I would want to go there, and what I look for at the interview to make a better decision.
Applicants were overwhelmingly impressed by the friendly and welcoming atmosphere at BU, highlighting the supportive faculty, laid-back interview process, and emphasis on a sense of community. Many appreciated the school's modern facilities, diverse student body, and programs like APEX and externships, as well as the city of Boston itself. Suggestions included more interaction with faculty and more information on the curriculum.
Interviewer was a very nice person, knowledgeable about the field of dentistry and BU as an institution.
Talked about my interviewers travels doing dental presentations.
So friendly. I liked how they hold a casual conversational interview rather than a timed and stationed critical thinking ability assessment which really does nothing to find out about the applicant.
10 Week externship, seems to be a progressive curriculum. Although its an older and larger school, students still have input and are able to change things regarding curriculum and policies.
The school is very modern and nice. The faculty were all very friendly and made you feel like they wanted you to attend BU. The APEX program seems like a great jumping off point to finding a job after school. Tons of research opportunities. BU has all specialties. It's Boston!
How frickin friendly everyone is at the school and in the city! You feel very welcome and comfortable instantly. We got to meet the Dean of the school (that was amazing) and my interview group were the first to see the new dental school student scrubs by the dean himself! How easy the interview was and how elaborate the school is.
everyone is extremeeeely friendly! one of the students there said that coming to BU felt like a "big hug"..and i totally agree. everyone really seems to care
The students and faculty were the most welcoming and nice people I have met at any dental school. They emphasized the supportive environment and how great BU is, and you really felt it.
How friendly the students, professors, and admission committees were. They even tell you at the beginning of the interview that their interview is conversational and relaxed so they can get to know us.
The students and faculty attitude. They were all very nice, laid back and informative, even those that were just walking around the building would say Hi to you and tell you about the school. The school offers a lot of hands-on experience before you graduate (APEX in the 1st and 2nd years and then the externship program of your 4th year)I think these are very helpful for practice before you go into the field.
Their APEX program that allows you to gain more experience before working on real patients in your third year.
Also their Bump up program to provide more patients for their students.
They had a diverse student body who seemed to be willing to help freshmen. Also the students all seemed to get along with each other. The simulation lab is state of the art.
The simulation clinic and the building it is in are beautiful, very modern and well equipped. The admissions people did a very good job promoting BU's positives and seem to genuinely care about their students. There were also a number of very friendly faculty who said hello to us while we were on tour. If I go to BU, it will be because of their efforts and the great pre-clinic facilities.
Facilities, the students, but most of all the fact that the staff truly care for the students. Dr.Shaw (Associate Dean) is the sweetest lady, she said very nice words to us. I wish I had spoken with her after my interview. The students are very sociable, they are not cuthroat, [cough::unlike UF].
The DS-4 who gave us the tour was very nice and helpful. Boston is a student city and is very diverse and international. And it wasn't as cold as I thought.
BU is an AMAZING school ... and its very surprising it doesnt have a better reputation than TUFTS or any other good school. Tour was very useful. It has amazing facilities.
(1) Dr. Calabrese (my Interviewer)
(2) Dr. Shaw (Associate Dean of Admissions)
(3) Mike Kacewicz (student tour - DMD-3)
All three of these people were friendly and honest. Dr Calabrese emphasized how important it is to make the right choice for "YOU" when deciding which dental school to attend...even if it isn't BU. Dr Shaw treated us as if were already her colleagues - she actually said this - and conveyed to us various "recipes" for success as a dentist and public servant. Mike, was just completely straight forward and mixed no words when he described his and other BU classes as being a "team" rather than "100% cutthroat". He said students who have good lecture notes or some kind of edge on a particular topic, regularly circulate their information to their classmates rather than look out for "#1".
The people there are amazing. I cant stop saying only good things about the faculty. Everyone was so helpful.. They werent afraid to tell you that their school wasnt perfect and wanted you to choose the school that fit you best.
Beautiful facilities, the student that conducted our tour was knowledgable and friendly, the staff was also very accessesable and informative. I would love to get accepted here.
The entire process was very low-key. I never felt that I was being tested or under serious review. The faculty went out of their way to make the experience pleasant.
modern facilites/sim lab was really nice/students and faculties made you feel really comfortable and welcome at the school/student's concerns seem to be heard and respected by faculty/large patient pool
facilites...i liked the fact that the 3rd and 4rth year students work in a small private practice type of a room, instead of a large hall with a million chairs...the latter doesn't give you any space and privacy...
The faculy seems really nice. The school as a whole is largely student oriented and therefore they welcome any suggestions to improve the curriculum, etc etc. The new Sim lab. APEX. Enthusiasm of the faculty. Overall a good school. My first choice.
The interviewer was extremely friendly. It was very relaxing and he was extremely encouraging, We spent most of the time talking about weather, and Iranians. I also got a tan while there!
The school will go through great lengths to accommodate your needs. I got the impression that if students are unhappy with any aspect of the school, they will bend over backwards to try to fix it. Furthermore, Boston is a great city to live in. Just be a little open minded.
Student are happy there. A lot of patients. Really new and good facilities (new hand pieces). All medical center and dental school are located in the same area. Dental school is not isolated. Good preparation for Board I for students, and it means high possibiligy to get into speciality programs.
The people were extremely friendly. Also the admissions people stressed the fact that they want people with a personality and not people who look good on paper. I really liked this fact because dentists have to work with patients. The new clinic floor is brand new and extremely nice.
the facilities are really nice, the faculty was great, students seemed happy, and there are so many resources available for students - the school really tries to make you feel comfortable and to be flexible to the student's needs. Also, patient base is huge!
They always talk about things as if you are already accepted and will be starting next year (eg. "next year this facility will be available for you")
A new clinic on the 5th floor, 25 new chairs I was told to be open for use starting Summer 2003.
The sim. lab is also fairly new, very very spanking clean and impressive compared to another sim. lab at another school I have seen.
This somewhat explains the high cost of this school, but we all know it is very expensive to build a brand new clinic with 25 new chairs...
The staffs were also very polite, professional, and providing both breakfast and lunch is very nice of them...
I loved being in Boston. I wasn't too crazy about the blistering cold (which was mild compared to January I was told). I also loved how the school caters to their students. I loved how we were able to talk to the dental students alone. I was impressed by their APEX program. I only wished we could have talked to more faculty. By far out of the 3 interviews I went to they had the best lunch!
Applicants were most commonly unimpressed by the high cost of attendance, outdated facilities, lack of clinical experience, unprofessional interviewers, and concerns about patient volume and faculty engagement. Suggestions include improving the interview process, updating facilities, increasing clinical opportunities, addressing high costs, and enhancing overall professionalism and engagement within the school.
Informal style of the interview and lack of feedback from interview made it difficult to know where I stand.
Interviewer also talked for the majority of the time so it was difficult to talk about myself.
some of the presentations - fin aid/ student services were really long and not very professional..overall i prefer when the process is professional and a little bit on the formal side.
I got a bad vibe from the school. I think I saw a total of 6 patients throughout the course of the entire day. The clinics were a ghost town. Students kept making excuses. "Oh, the clinics are normally busy...". They send you on externships and APEX because there's not enough patients at the school, in my opinion anyway. Students also said "you don't do much of endo, it's too tedious", and "you refer extractions down to oral surgery". I want to learn to be a dentist, not how to refer things out and not do procedures because they're too tedious! The facilities were also "meh", nothing too special. During some of the presentations, some of the faculty were yawning and had their head in their hands, and playing with their cell phone. Doesn't exactly send a professional message.
crappy building. interview was a bit unorganized. most of all APEX!! APEX is just glorified shadowing. i dont know how they can put a positive spin on cheap labor. i rather have my summer break than to work like a dog.
Everyone does not have their own chairs. It doesn't seem like they get that much clinical experience since grades are based on "competency" rather than a set number of procedures. I'm not sure how good the patient pool is (Tufts and Harvard are all close by). The cost/high cost of living.
How expensive the school is, expect to be in 300K+ debt by the time you graduate. US students can get 100% loans but if your not a US citizen it will be harder to finance education here, but they have alot of options to help you out.
Interviewer took phone calls during interview and I asked all of the questions. the whole day was really boring. bad presentations, boring tour that lasted forever.
I wanted so badly to love the facilities of the school since I am a Mass Resident and loved the atmosphere of the school...but the other posts are right..it's still not quite as good as a lot of other dental schools. not to say that you wouldn't get a good education from these facilities, they just aren't quite as nice for the price of the school
Dr. Pollins, the guy who gave us the talk about the school, was really boring. The students all seemed like the worst stereotype of dentists...white, male, and going home to join their daddy's practice after graduation. They didn't seem like people I would be proud to have as colleagues. Dr. Pollins didn't seem to respect us as future professionals, either - he told us that we couldn't get out of exams just because our girlfriend/boyfriend had dumped us the night before, which I thought was rather unnecessary...Overall the school struck me as really corporate and unacademic. I'm sure it would be a good personality match for some people (I could tell that some people in my interview group really liked it), but for me, it would be a bad fit.
my interviewer was strict and kept cutting me off when I was answering the questions. I prepared for a lot but he didn't really go far beyond reviewing of the application
not that a safe of an area, classes are so crammed together that the students take the boards a semester ahead of schedule (to me, it seems like they are rushing). it was personally not for me, but it could be for you.
lackadaisical/ whimsical tour guide (maybe she just didnt know details to the questions we asked, but imo, dont tour)
Other applicants/interviewees seemed like children imo, and i'm 22yrs
They dont disclose the board scores for the classes, shaddy imo
for the 1st and 2nd years, you sit in one classroom for the whole day and professor come to you. Too much monotiny for me
Tuition...Expensive!!! Also, I could see that if I go there I would not be able to use my car at all and I don't like public transportation...traffic is hectic and you can't find parking spaces anywhere in the city!
The interviewer showed no respect. She asked maybe 3 quesitons, all about my transcript. She answered the phone in our five-minute interview, and did not even look at me once directily. Gee, if I am going to pay 70 something thousand a year, I think I at least deserve an nice eye contact and the phone off. This shows me how much attention I am going to get in the future if I will enroll. But no.
cost,cry!! Projected total costs each year for the class of 2011: yr1-$80,768 yr2-$82,566 yr3-$78,541 yr4-$78,475
It was nerve wracking that the interview was at the end of the day.
They discussed curriculum in very little detail.
There was a student tour guide, and a 4th year student who came to the boardroom to answer any questions. However we had no real opportunity to talk to any other students.
The facility is old; students implied they don't get enough clinical experience. In fact, many feel the need to complete the AEGD program to get more clinical experience.
Our tour guide left something to be desired. The building the clinics are in is a dim, hideously ugly cinderblock, low-ceilinged, 50's architectural nightmare (but the clinic chairs themselves are modern and well equipped and well lit). The financial aid lady almost scared us straight out even considering going to BU. The area that the school is in a rougher part of town and is pretty far from the most convenient public transport (the T), but they have free taxi vouchers if you have to stay late to study.
The school seemed old and dark. Our student interviewer told us scheduling patients was a challenge. There aren't enough chairs for every student. My interviewer seemed really bored; there were lots of wierd silences.
Price of school, the other applicants that I interviewed with did not seem to be to prepared for the interview, or Dental school. The Cadavours are already dissected all you do is prosection, and there are only 4 cadavers.
everything. i felt like the place was a dentist factory. they made no attempt at making anything personal. the lady couldn't even sign acceptance letters. they sent me a photocopy of the letter i think. nothing about the interview day was professional in the least. the interviewer could tell i was overqualified for the school (no offense, sorry)and it was evident she didn't even bother to read over my application before interviewing me.
false impression of how easy it is to get chair time...right before we left a student was finally straightforward and said only 65% graduate on time b/c there aren't enough chairs. and cost!
our tour guide was very inappropriate in the information he gave us about the school. he only spoke about the negatives of the school, which i wont repeat, and just completely turned everyone on the tour off to the school.
how depressing the school itself looks, the traffic how expensive everything was (i think i spent 200 dollars and i was only there for one day--and im canadian!!)
We only got to meet one student. The entire day we were pretty much kept in one conference room which got very trying. The weather is also an extreme there.
tuition is high, and not everyone gets their own operatory during 3rd and 4th year - but I was assured that there would be enough chairs regardless and that chair time isn't often an issue.
I was told the location of the school is in a somewhat unsafe neighborhood to walk around at night, especially for the girls, but that this is common for medical/dental areas in large cities....
The costs! Everything there is so expensive. 3 out of 4 students basically said that if you can go to a cheaper school you should go there. The weather! It snowed overnight when I was there-and it is even more bitter during the winter. I did not like the set up of the clinics-yes the rooms were seperate but you are basically on your own from day one.
Many applicants wished they had known ahead of time about the relaxed and stress-free nature of the interview day at BU, as well as the emphasis on conversational interviews rather than traditional question sessions. Additionally, common suggestions included being aware of the long interview day, bringing a picture of oneself, and considering transportation options and accommodation locations.
That the interviewer would ask me for what my top pick other than BU was
The order of the interviews so I can expect whether I'd be called up first or last. I ended up waiting for an hour while people went and came back. I wasn't nervous at all until I saw all these people filled with confidence coming back one at a time and I was left to be interviewed second to last.
it definitely depends on who you get for an interviewer! (not that i had any control over this) some of the interviewers were extremely laid back and from what i heard from the other students barely even asked any dentistry-related questions. mine definitely did, however..but still wasn't overwhelmingly intense
There is really nothing around Courtyard South End hotel so if you don't have a car like I did, I would recommend else where with restaurants around. Otherwise, it was very nice because they had complementary wireless and printing downstairs.
That the interview was going to be so laid back and stress free.
That I didn't need to rent car b/c it was faster and easier to use public transportation system (T)...the car was a waste of money. (We only used the car to come from the airport to the hotel and back to the aiport, so try booking a hotel that offers airport pick-up and drop-off and use the subway and buses for your stay...even for tourism!
Doesn't matter how early you arrive and sign-in. You get randomly picked for an interview. I was the first one to sign-in and the last to interview (45 min. wait).
They said that 40% of students do not graduate on time. It's not as bad as it sounds, since most finish after working a couple more months in the summer. (fortunately, you don't pay any more tuition as long as you finish by sept?) Still, this can't be good.
Getting chair time can be a challenge.
That Boston is a very nice city, I wish I stayed longer. For those of you who are out of state and plan on going to your interviews, don't rent a car. Boston's mass-transit system is so efficient. The people are frienly, everyone is helpful. The city is saturated with a college life atmosphere, there are soo many students (people my age early 20s) and you don;t feel isolated or alone. Dental students do not have classes with medical students or any other health professional division, I think that a big plus! If you visit the school you will be drawn in by the faculty and the facilities. The building iself is huge!
The tuition + other expenses for BU dental school this year is $75,000, while the maximum studnet loan for each student is only $45,000. so if you are planning to attend this school, you need to be ready to come up with the extra $30,000 per year somehow.
There's no point stressing yourself out for the interview. Interviewers are VERY friendly and when they ask you a question they even tell you what they are expecting and make the whole thing a piece of cake!!!!
that if you have even thought about specializing or deing research or academics, don't go to BU.
if you want to finish school and go into general dentistry, go to BU. don't waste your time and money at other schools.
BU has a large patient pool... apprently, after they lowered the price of the dental care at school. Students are overwhelmed with the amt of patients that they have. More than enough clinical experience.
I did a lot of reading about the school, but it was not clear as to how great it was until I saw it for myself. I can't say enough about the staff and facilities. I would also agree with the other posters in saying that there is no need to worry about getting barrated by the interviewer at BU, it was a pleasant experience.
Donââโ¬âโ¢t drive!! The traffic is crazy in the morning hours and the roads are confusing. Plan to leave early to get there in time. Dont stress yourself out and get a good nights sleep before the interview day.
He said that at early interviews, the purpose is more the school trying to recruit students they want rather than the students trying to sell themselfes to the school.
That they still had spaces open. I moved my interview date from end of April to mid-March, and I think I was very lucky to be moved up. They didn't say whether there were spaces still open, even at my interview they wouldn't say it. That was too much stress for me, thinking that I am attending an interview that might not have any more spaces and spend...
Applicants generally found the interview experience at BU to be relaxed and conversational, emphasizing the importance of being genuine and asking questions. Positive feedback was given about the friendly environment, faculty/student interactions, and the overall atmosphere of the school. Some concerns were raised about the cost of attendance and the patient base, while others praised the school's facilities and faculty support.
Advice: stay loose and act like you are just meting a colleague or family member for coffee. The interview is VERY informal, the interviewer just wants to have a genuine conversation with you. Keep your file/CV/script handy to refer to (assuming its on zoom) just incase but don't stress about hitting every talking point. Just let the conversation flow.
They are generally just trying to get to know you. Come with questions and show that you are genuinely interested. The students are really helpful and you can tell that the school promotes a really friendly and cohesive environment.
seems like a very student friendly school. they seemed a little aloof about the clinical situation, but overall i got a positive vibe from this school.
It's a great university but very expensive. The building is a little old but overall, students are happy there. Faculty has an open door policy which is great. Very friendly.
I really liked the school. Clinic was great, sim lab and everything was on par with other schools. My only concern was the patient base, but students seemed to have no problem completing their competencies.
lousy location. tufts is right next to the subway station. you have to take a bus from the subway to get to BU.
didnt like boston much. rude people.
also, not sure if this speaks for the whole city but there was race protest in downtown boston. bunch of rednecks with racist cardboards walking around. was quite shocked by this
This was my first interview and so I was really scared and nervous. I studied extensively for this interview, going over possible questions over and over in my head. All you need to do is make sure you know whats in your AADSAS application and personal statement, study the BU website (just in case you want to throw some facts into the interview to look good), and most importantly JUST BE YOURSELF! Seriously.
She gave me her card first.. and I noticed right away she has a degree in education. So we talked about education (my tutoring and teaching experience.. and learning English as my second language) for the most part. Nothing about dentistry haha.
My interview was with a non-dentist administrator, which I thought was kind of silly. Also, they scheduled my interview in early February for mid-March, so in the meantime I had been accepted to two other schools. BU was definitely the worst of the schools I interviewed at, but maybe I was biased since I'd interviewed other places before.
Most of the SDNers have said that BU interviews are the coolest. I agree with them!
Just be calm and truthfull, read your SOP well since its an open file iv most of the questions are from your own writing.
interview was a joke. not even an interview. guy was really cool, he just went over my AADSAS application, and then asked me if i had any questions. we then talked about the red sox-yankees series
The interview was excellent. It was sooo relaxing and everyone made you feel comfortable. Dr. Shaw is a sweetheart. I interviewed with Dr. Stoute and he is a wonderful man. He made me feel comfortable and was delighted to see the students who were there.
the interviewer was very nice, talked about my relatives who attended BU, the weather, very laid back. No grilling and more of a conversation. The lecture prior to the interview was held by another ADCOM person and this guy was intense. Very honest and blunt, very different from other faculty members. Overall a good experience
Didnt get a good vibe from the school. Seems like it's run more like a business rather than a school. Didnt feel like i was a distinct student to them. I'll be going else where.
it was really laid back. the interview itself was very laid back. the doc seemed to talk more than i did, which i guess is a good thing. just sit and listen ;) and look interested
The interviewer asked me about almost everything in my application, starting with the numbers (GPA and DAT) to hobbies and goals. Further into the interview, it became much more relaxed and it turned out that his son and I both played the same instruments and similar hobbies. Play on whatever peaks the interviewer's interest. If he/she is a hard-ass and you feel you're not getting anywhere, ask them questions about their personal life and they'll open up right away. At least it always worked for me.
I had the nicest interviewer, who definitely eased my stress. There was a thorough explanation of the curriculum and what to expect for next four years.
My interviewer was a woman on the admissions staff. People were interviewed by either a faculty member or admissions staff. She was incredibly sweet and friendly. The conversation was very laid back, and I enjoyed talking with her.
I had a regional and ended up visiting cause I had another interview in the same city the next week so my experience was somewhat unique, but it seemed like a really good school with more than enough to offer students. The interview was laid back and interesting, don't stress it too much.
As I was foretold, the interview was pretty casual- I was asked about a number of things in my application, about dentistry and about my dental experience.
it was very laid back, a directed conversation where they asked you the obvious questions, but mostly wanted to get to know you a little bit. Not at all an interrogation.
The day started with a light breakfast. Then two dental students started the tour. The facilities were nice[looked new]. Along the tour we met some of the faculty, they were very nice, and asked us if we were having a good time. They also help relieve any anxiety we had. Then we went to their other building and saw the Sim lab[really nice!]. Then came back in. Dr.Shaw came and spoke to us, again she's so linda! I love her Bosotn accent, for example she pronounced the word 'after' as "..aaafter". Then lunch and during lunch another student came in and talked to us. When we finised lunch we the interview process started. One by one they the interviewers came in and called our names. This I'd say was the only time I felt stressed, only because I wasn't called immediately.
I hope you can carry a conversation because if you can't I think this interview will be a little hard for you. Its more of a conversation than a bunch of questions and answers however, in the conversation you can talk about yourself. Just be confident and relax. This interview was pretty stress free and I did not sense any tension between the other interviewees
There was a small group of us interviewing. We had to wait in the conference room for about 30 min before our student tour leader arrived. At least everyone interviewing was cool. Our tour leader had never given a tour before so we didn't really get a good look at the clinics and the whole tour was kind of sub-par. We had lunch and then our interviews which were really laid-back even though my interviewer seemed really bored. Then a talk about financial aid which was actually really informative. No mention about the cirriculum at all which was odd.
They pulled us away individually just before lunch. My interview was with Dr. Stoute. It was a conversation, but he did ask some questions i wasn't expecting.
The student who gave the tour of the school was very friendly and did a great job in giving us a complete tour of the facility.
Faculties that we run into during the tour show so much interest in each one of us and made us feel we are at home. You'll be surprise how friendly and easy going the faculties are.
The interview was very laid back. They asked very simple and straightforward questions. But after some questions, the interview was like a conversation.
I had applied for Advanced standing,the interview was very cool, the interviewer made the students feel very comfortable and the questions were all based on whatever we had written on our SOP.
Every one there are very friendly and will make you feel at ease.We had a short, simple and informative orientation.Students are friendly and will answer any questions you might wanna know.
One thing I must definitely say is that the interview was very laid back so make sure you are not so stressed out about it that you fail to actually learn about the school itself. Take the time and thought to ask good questions, take a good look around Boston if you aren't from there to make sure you like it or not. Interview was really good...have fun, enjoy it, and RELAX!
The overall process was great except for the "lecture" right before the personal interviews. Right before the interview, you kind of want some time to prepare yourself mentally and we didnt really have that. The personal interview turned out to be a very laid back conversation about certain things on your application they were unsure about or wanted further information on. We talked through current events for a bit, talked about Boston in general, talked about doing residency in the future and some other stuff. There was a little bit of tension between all the applicants, not too bad though.
Tour was way too long. My interviewer snuck in the waiting room as a stranger. He started eating and talking for 30 min while the one on one interview had begun then he identified himself a interviewer when he's done his coffee and donuts. I still cant forget his greediness to those terrible food on the table. I know it was a laid-back interview, but I totally felt disrespected. IT IS INTERVIEW, NOT YOUR BREAKFAST TIME. BEARD DUDE!!!
Since he's talked a lot before taking me to his office. He only asked two questions and then kept asked me "any questions".... He brought me back to the waiting room and guess what~~ he then looked around any leftover~~ But the food was really bad, he then opened a can of coke beofore heading back to his office.
The tour around the dental school was very helpful. My interview was very short and laidback, although it almost seemed like my interviewer didn't even care. Got accepted 2 weeks after.
The school was nice but they could not defend the problem of too many students to patients. Thus I assume chair time will be a problem. Also during the interiew you will have to introduce yourself at least five times. We went around the table every time a new DS came in to answer question and talked about ourselves. We all were very put off by this.
Cold. Weak school. Weak program. Disorganized. They don't let you interact with students because they are scared of what the students might say. No wonder no one wants to go there.
Dont like how the tour comes before the actual interviews. All in all, good experience, had achance to ask a lot of questions. Student giving the tour was also very helpful.
The student giving the tour was pretty shy and reserved, he seemed like he did not really know how to give a tour or was to insecure to do a good job of it. That or he just really didn't care, which I cannot blame him for. However we had another student a 4th year come in for Q&A and she was seemed really to have a good grip on things. She was much more candid about everything which was a relief.
The actual interview was one on one and was mind blowingly laid back. I was not asked about anything science related.
Overall great interview. Interviewer read over my essay and I had used the phrase "dental tools". He asked me why I used the word "tools". He advised that I begin to refer to them as dental "instruments". We had a good laugh about it.
"i'm just trying to get a C in each class to pass so I can take over my dad's private practice"- tour guide...
that was the sentiment running through everything that was presented to us. you pay loads of money to feel like you're on a dentistry conveyer belt, just try to pass and just get through school so you can go right into filling cavities non-stop for the rest of your life.
the interview was at a regional location and not at the dental school so i missed out on a lot. if you can, go to the dental school for an interview! nevertheless, the interviewer was very friendly and genuine and just wanted to see if i would really go to boston for dental school. overall, a very pleasant experience.
Overall good experience. I would have to say that it's my top choice. yea.. it's expansive, but you're gonna be able to pay it all back once you start working. so no need to worry about that. I think the APEX and externship prgm that they have here impressed me.. as well as the nice faculty.
As an interviewer at Boston University School of Dental Medicine, I just wanted to clear up a few "facts" as presented by students in this forum:
1) No interviewer "accepts" a candidate-rather we make a recommendation to our Admissions Committee which makes decision--one student posted a response saying that s/he received a final decision within his interview--that does not happen.
2) The Dental School is, like any other large city school, subject to the environment around it. As with any city, we would recommend caution in moving about an urban campus at day or at night. But the School is not in a war zone or bad area. It is simply a very busy urban setting near a major interstate highway and consequently traffic and congestion can be difficult.
3) There is no issue with students being able to not graduate on time because of inadequate chair numbers. The School recently opened a new, state-of-the-art 22 chair clinic devoted entirely to the DMD program.
4) To the student who said we appear to be crammed into one building: that's an interesting observation since on your tour you were shown through at least 2 of the 9 buildings we occupy!
5) Our conversation during the interview phase is to assess an applicant's preparedness, both academically and otherwise, for the rigors of an intense, 4-year curriculum. It is not an interrogation and is meant to be as friendly and laid-back as possible. We certainly welcome feedback as to how to better this experience for applicants! You are also welcome and encouraged to ask us as many questions as you'd like!
6) Lunch--the eternal question--the student tour occurs in the morning and applicant interviews commence at 12 noon. Food generally arrives between 12-12:30 (depending on the caterer) and certainly everyone is invited to eat immediately though most prefer to wait until they've interviewed to present with nice shiny teeth!
Great forum--wish this had been around when I applied to college! :-)
BU is definitely my highest choice with the exception of The University of Washington and that is only because I am a Washington State resident so the lower tuition really speaks my language. I'm sure anybody reading this, who has been on at least one interview so far, knows the difference between feeling welcome and laid back throughout a given interview and feeling semi-nauseous and ill-at-ease. I can guarantee your BU interview will, at very least, keep you much more in the former category.
it was a laidback day. the faculty/students were very friendly and continuously wanted to be asked questions. the facilities were great too, until you realize that it's so tough to get a chance to use them when you're competing for chairtime!
The interview is a piece of cake.. Just enjoy your stay. go out and enjoy urself.. and for everyone one that interviewed NOV 1. good luck with your other interview... hope to see you guys somewhere someday...
The interview day consisted of a tour, a question and answer session, and the interview. The interview was very pleasant, and was more of a get to know you session. I would suggest asking questions. Not only Q's related to dental school, but ask the interviewer how long they've been in Boston, What made them consider dental academics, and where they attended dental school. I asked such questions which led to a very long and heartfelt conversation. I think more than anything, the schools are looking to see how your interpersonal skills are.
it was ok, other than the expenses of the city and school (which are HIGH!!) the school itself was ok, the new simulation clinic was really nice but felt like an assembly line rather than a class,, also i would recommend getting a hotel near the school and dont drive, cab fares are a rip off there
Overall a good but very expensive school. A few students stressed how difficult the first year was. But I guess thats how all schools are. The facilities besides the simlab were just o.k. and nothing imparticular stood out about the school.
First we were briefed by a couple of faculty members, then a tour by a student, then another briefing by a retired doctor, then the interview, then lunch, then financial aid...then we got to go home.
The day started out with a group tour of the school. After that, we came to back to the conference room where sub sandwiches were served. Then, several staff members and students talked about there life experiences as professional at BU. Make sure you listen carefully and ask as many questions as you can.
very laid back, nice hotel, very friendly interviewer, went through the APEX schedules...got a better idea of it... he was a dentist so i got to ask him some questions about his experiences as a dentist..good and bad ones...
It was a great experiance for me... The interview was held at the gorgeous hotel.. and Dr.Polin definitely was trying to put me at ease..we had many laughters.. I really like the feeling I'm getting, and I would definitely love to go to BU.
Very positive - the interviewer, Dr. Hutter, was very positive and asked me what was going to make or break my decision with regard to which school I attend.
The interview was great!!! I regret that I didn't choose to have it at Boston instead so I can see the school more. From all my experiences with other interviews, this one is the best. I smile a lot, that's for sure :-)
The best interview experience ever. Since the interview was regional it was held in Miami, FL. I had my interview in the most gorgeous hotel on the 33 floor outside on the balcony facing the beach. Absolutely the most relaxing place to have an interview.
I don't like Boston. The town was cold, boring and the school is very hard to find. plus the interview was very stressful. Oh..and the interview is scheduled at the very end of the day..which made us all stressed till the end and none of us was able to eat anything till the end. why do they do that???
I had a really fun interview filled with a lot of laughter and jokes. I felt like I was talking to a friend and not responding to interview questions. Great place to interview.
It was a very relaxed, laid back interview. It didn't even feel like an interview. Dr. Polins didn't ask ANY of the typical interview questions. It was pretty much whatever you wanted to tell him. And it was mostly an opportunity for me to ask questions. Dr. Polins was very honest and open. He said I should go to whatever school I was most comfortable at.
It was really positive. We just talked. There were no real questions. Just a nice conversation where the interviewer just talked about how she was really impressed with something I had done in my life.
Don't drive!! I can't even remember how many times I got lost. I suggest taking a taxi. Boston is a great city, I think I would be very happy at BU. Try and go a few days in advance, like I did, to get to know the city.
Generally, it is a really good school in clinic. BU takes care a lot for their students, and they have good ranking in National Board I. Students are happy in studying there even they know they need to borrow a lot of loans.
I had a lengthy interview with one adcom, and ran into another in the lobby where be talked for 10 minutes. Both were very cool and weren't out to "get you". They asked some questions and wanted to see if [B]I[/B] was interested, then told me about the school and what it offers me. I liked the interview and I liked what i learned about the school. Overall it was nice
He really different ask me a lot of questions. The main thing he asked me was if I had any questions, concerns, comments on what I learned from the website. At the end of the interview he asked a few questions about some of my life experiences, grades, DAT scores; all pretty general though. More of a recruiting effort.
I enjoyed my time at the interview. Talked to the other eight students about schools and about life in general. The school made the entire time stress free and the food they provided was good. Don't stress about the interview. Throughout the day they get to figure out who you are because they have pictures of each student. So when people are talking, PAY ATTENTION and ASK QUESTIONS.
The interview was pretty laid back...it was more about me asking questions than questions being asked of me. The only difficult part was explaining some of my grades.
The overall experience was very gratifying! It was my first official acceptance, and it may be rare, but the admissions coordinator admitted me on the spot. I'll not forget that day!
What are your suggestions for the admissions office?
Applicants generally expressed satisfaction with the admissions office, with a few minor suggestions for improvement such as providing a detailed agenda, reducing wait times, and ensuring prompt communication and more efficient updates.
