Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine
Boston, MA
Dental Schools | Public For-Profit
Overall, applicants ranked the school in the top 29% of interviews, indicating it is moderately regarded. They found the interview mixed with a low stress level, and felt they did well.
⭐ Overall Impressions ▼
How did the interview impress you?
Most respondents felt positively about their interview.
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.
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
💬 Interview Questions ▼
What is one of the specific questions they asked you?
The most commonly asked interview questions at medical schools revolve around the motivations for pursuing dentistry, handling ethical scenarios, discussing shadowing and volunteer experiences, explaining gaps in education, and addressing personal characteristics like strengths and weaknesses. Many respondents also mentioned a conversational tone, indicating a non-traditional interview style possibly in an MMI format with questions tailored to the applicant's profile, while some noted a lack of direct questions leading to more open-ended discussions.
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Dental school is stressful, what do you do to decompress?
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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?
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Why dentistry? Why do you want to be a dentist and not a hygienist?
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Do you have any siblings?
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Tell me about yourself
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Why did you take gap years?
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tell me about yourself.
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Why dentistry?
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What did you like/dislike about your shadowing experience?
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What do your parents do?
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Tell me your dental journey.
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Do you have any questions for me or about the school?
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There were basically NO questions.. the interview was super informal and I had to try really hard to talk about my own accomplishments (volunteering, shadowing, why dentistry) because it wasn’t asked.
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What are you doing now (after graduation)? Interviewer didn’t really seem to pay attention to my responses.
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What's something you don't like about yourself/would change?
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What have you been doing since graduation? (I work in a lab) followup question: Isn't that tedious?
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Why haven't you heard back from anywhere else yet?
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Asked me about my hobbies/interests.
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Just a conversation, very laid-back
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back and forth convo completely unrelated to dentistry
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honestly cannot think of a single question they asked me - it was more a conversation with questions feeding off each other
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any observership?
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what do you want to ask about the school?
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what's your plan in the future?
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Describe your research in layman's terms. (My interview was admissions staff)
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is there anything that you'd want me to tell the admissions committee that isn't in this application?
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I was asked maybe 1 direct question. The rest was just conversation. My interviewer was great and very friendly.
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Why are you doing this right now? (activity unrelated to dentistry)
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What have you done since graduation?
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Why boston?
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Why do you think you would be a good fit at this school?
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Do you like your school?
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Tell me about your family.
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Why haven't you taken very many upper-level biology courses? (I have taken physio, anatomy, microbio, and biochem....there was just a misunderstanding, but expect them to ask it if that is the case!)
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do you have siblings?
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what does your dad do?
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what was your favourite course?
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Tell me about your family.
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Tell me about your parents' practice.
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Why did you choose your major?
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Do you have any questions for me?
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Tell me about your university?
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Why do you like working with children? (I have done a lot of volunteer work with kids)
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what was your greatest challenge in trying to get where you are today?
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Why Bu
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Ethical situation- how did I handle it.
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I brought it up- but research I was involved in.
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How do you like Boston?
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Tell me about a particular experience I listed on the AADSAS application.
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Tell me about your university.
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Also lead into...Why the career change?
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And lead into my willingness to relocate to Boston.
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Really a discussion, but it lead into Why dentistry?
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i see you did X. tell me about it
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tell me about your extracurricular
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Talk about your research experience
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Talk about your shadowing and volunteering experience
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Off the top of your head, describe yourself in 3 words
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personal stuff about family
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Why Boston? (im from the west coast)
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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?
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Tell me more about your shadowing experience?
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Tell me more about your work?
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Tell me about (insert every activity I listed)
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What do you think of Boston?
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Why NYU (Undergrad)?
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Can you explain this part of your app?
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What are you looking for in a dental school?
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What have you been doing since you graduated?
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What do you like most about dentistry/what do you like least?
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What do you think the biggest problem in dentistry is today?
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What makes you a competitive applicant? Tell me about your shadowing experience; Tell me about your volunteer exp..etc.
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What do you do in your time?
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Why should we accept you?
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How would you describe yourself?
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What did you do with your year off?
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what are your Future plans?
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Why BU?
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why is your Part 1 score JUST 87?
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How did you prepare or your NB? Why have you applied to BU, any specific reason?
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How different is the dental practice/patients in US and my country?
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Tell me about your observation experience in US?
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Lots of questions from personal essay...like oh I see you did this, tell me more about it.
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Tell me how you would describe yourself.
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What do you like to do in your spare time?
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Can you talk about a volunteer experience you've had?
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Can you talk about your research experience?
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Talk about your shadowing experiences.
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have you visited boston before
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what do you do in your free time
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what have you done since graduation
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what do you plan to do if you dont get in this year
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what have you been doing after graduation
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how did u prepare for toefl?
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YOU like working with kids..any of my interesting pedo case?
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how do i like boston
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related to my clinical exp
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why Boston
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Do you have time to read for pleasure? What books?
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what do you like about yourself?
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What is one of your weaknesses?
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what was my internship like
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why dentistry, why boston, why bu
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why had i taken an online course
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have any questions for me?
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what are your hobbies?
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why did you come to America?
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a conversation more than a grilling you with questions
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How long are you staying in boston? What do you look for in a school?
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none
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What did u like about the tour you went on?
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where were born? (literally, this was only question he asked)
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Why boston over california school? What other schools did you apply to
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would you like to change your personality?
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Asked about my research
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What i do in my free time what books i've read lately why BU
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why dentistry and not medicine (since i volunteered at a hospital)
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Why dentistry
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where else have you applied to?
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Why didnt you take Biochem yet?
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What area of dentistry do you want to go into?
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Why this school?
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Asked about my shadowing experiences.
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How did you prepare for your DAT?
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How's the climate in Venezuela (where I am from)?
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Have you taken biochemistry
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Have you taken English?
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Do you like diversity in culture?
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How many dental schools did you apply to?
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What do you do for fun and on your free time?
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Why did I transfer out of my old school?
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tell me about your research
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what was the reaction of friends and family to your decision to apply to dental school
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why do you want to be a dentist
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What other schools did you apply to?
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Why Boston as opposed to Los Angeles?
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Why Boston University?
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which other univ did u apply
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why did you choose bu
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why was your toefl score less . my toefl score is 250
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Tell me about the last good book you read.
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Tell me about your internship experience.
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why do you want to go to dental school?
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why do you want to live in boston?
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How do you manage your time?
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Any questions?
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Do you think you could live in Boston?
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What do you think of the school?
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Work exp.
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Where else did I apply?
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Why do I think that I will do better in dental school than college?
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Why not Cali?
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are any of your relatives dentist?
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how long will you be staying?
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what challenge do you think you might face while attending dental school?
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Do you like broadway shows?
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What is your experience with the field of dentistry?
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Will you plan to do research in dental school?
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Do you have any volunteering experiences?
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How long will you be in Boston?
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Why did you choose not to waive the right to read your recommendation letters?
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About my family & friends.
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Is there any voluntary work you did.
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How long have you been/will you be in Boston? What are you going to do while you are here?
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What do you not like about the school?
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talk about your dental experience?
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tell me about your state school
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what are your career goals?
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About dental experience?
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Other schools you applied and whats your first choice?
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Why boston?
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Do you have any questions?
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What did you think about your undergrad?
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hobbies
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work experience
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asked me about my work experience [back home]
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if bu is my 1st choice?
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my hobbies
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Tell me about your manual dexterity. Tell me about your shadowing experiences.
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Tell me about your research. Tell me about your volunteer experiences.
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What other activities do you do on your spare time?
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If lets say you were accepted to every school you applied how will you make your decision on which one to go to?
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If lets say you were not accepted to any school what will you do?
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What community service have you done?
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same stuff.
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explain your GPA and DAT score ?
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Why did you do better in JC science classes than those taken at a four-year institution?
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Do you know how crazy the weather is around here?
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So you are from Cali!!
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Where do you see youself in five years?
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Tell me about your current job.
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What are your strengths and weaknesses?
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What are you questions about the school?
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What are your strengths.
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What are your weaknesses?
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Why Boston University? (I don't want to go here, its just my backup plan.
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What would be least interesting in dental school?
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What would be most interesting for you in dental school?
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How many schools did apply to? what are they?
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Tell me about you work and volunteer experience with children (I tought and volunteered at elementary schoolsL
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Whould leave Canada?
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Tell me about your research experience.
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What is one of your strengths you'd like to tell me about.
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What is one weakness you'd like to tell me about and how you intend on improving it.
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all questions just came from anything interesting i said... cuz i'm so interesting of course! hahaha lol j/k. asked about my sister goin to school in the states & about her in general. normal conversation stuff. travelling, etc, etc
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same as "most interesting question".
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what do i look for in a d-school? what are my top choices? any questions?
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Tell me about yourself?
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Why dentistry?
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Would you like to specialize?
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how many siblings I have?
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Tell me about your community experiences
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Tell me what you did from after your graduation
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"Explain the deficiencies on your transcript (classes withdrawn from, low grades).
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"What have you been doing since you graduated?"
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"You've applied to alot of programs in alot of locations. What is your reasoning and criteria behind that?"
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"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)
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"why boston?" (boston is the mecca of all health professions, why ask a question like that....)
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"why bu?" (in hindsight, i should have declined the interview invitation. i was going to withdraw my application after the interview becasue i had no interest in going, but i didn't want to waste a stamp...)
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not many questions- mostly conversational and i asked a lot of questions
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would you really go all the way to boston for dental school?
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Tell me about your extracurricular activities.
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What do you look forward to the most in dental school?
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Tell me about your time spent overseas?
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What do you know/feel about the Scott Petersen trial? After I answered, Dr. Calabrese showed me a way in which dental students at BU are taught to attack professional "problems" in the same way one might approach a courtroom battle, vis-a-vis an analytical method called Evidence Based Dentistry.
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What is your opinion of the 2004 presidential election? I didn't feel uncomfortable to be candid on this topic.
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what questions do you have (over and over again), he talked more than me, but was super friendly
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why not uconn?
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me still talking.
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me talking
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how was your school back home?
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How will you adjust to school full time? How do you deal with stress? How will you like being broke? (I have been out of school for a while)
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Went through AADSAS application, asked about grades and DAT, etc. Then, what should I tell the admissions committee about you, that you may not have mentioned already?
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Why dental? Why BU?
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how did you choose the schools you applied to?
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how would you make your decision on where to go for school?
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what do you like about dentistry
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tell me about your research?
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why dentistry and not medicine?
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would you go to boston if accepted and why?
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Are you ready to go back to academics? (I've been out of school for a while)
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Does your family support your decision to become a dentist?
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Would you practice in public health?
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how do you relieve stress?
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question from my essay...
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strengths/weaknesses?
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how did you like Boston?
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what did you think about the tour?
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why medicine and dentistry? which would you pick?
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how many brothers/sisters you have,,, all in all Dr.Shah was really nice as an interviwer but some of the questions she asked me were sooooo non related to my applicatoin, i.e. wat is that stuff indian people put on their hands (i.e. mendhi) and wat do you parents do, i mean come on !!
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strengths/weaknesses
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why apply to medicine, which one prefer
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what would u do if u didnt get into dent this year?
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Why didnt u opt for a regional interview in Vancouver?
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Why were grades so poor in first and second year?
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Tell me about your research project.
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What do you do in your spare time?
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What is your strongest quality?
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What have you been doind since graduation?
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What schools did you apply and interview at.
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Why do you want to come to Boston?
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how old is your brother
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tell me about your hometown
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what type of engineer is your dad
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How do you handle stress?
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What do you like MOST about yourself?
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What would you change about yourself?
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what classes are you taking this quarter and next quarter?
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when did you move to US and why did you go to california?
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tell me about your family/
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what dont you like about yourself?
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what do u look for in a good dental school
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where do u see urself in 10 years
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Why Boston/Boston U
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where do u see urself in 5 years
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About my undergrade, the classes I took, basically about my major and the field I study in..
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Why dentistry? How many interviews did you have?
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How would you handle the stress of the intense program of our school?
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What do you do to relax?
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How did I do in school during my Fall semester?
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How many schools did I apply to?
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What I thought of Boston
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What are your future goals?
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Why do you want to be a dentist vs doctor?
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Why do you want to go to Boston
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Why do you want to be a dentist?
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do u want to do postgraduation
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how do i relieve stress
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my strong points
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Any questions for me?
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Do you want to specialize?
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What are your goals?
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Are you going to get a chance to see the town before you leave?
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How are you doing today?
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How do you like 'Beantown'?
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Do you use sports to deal with stress? How do I deal with it?
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What is your best quality?
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Why I want to be a dentist
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Did you watch the game the other night?
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Is there anything in particular you want to know about the school?
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So you graduated a couple years ago and went back to school to take some classes recently... how did you feel going back to school?
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What do you do when you're facing stressful situations?
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What do you have to offer to your colleagues, friends, family, or the school?
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What do you think about the school you are studying now?
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What is your motivation about your future?
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Why do you decide dentistry?
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How do you think you'll like Boston?
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Tell me about your scholastic career
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What schools did you apply to?
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how many school did I applied for
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why dental
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How do you deal with stress?
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What are your strong points?
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Did you like working in Montana? How did you like Vancouver?
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What do you like about yourself? Did you watch the game last night?
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What don't you like about yourself? Are you here long enough to do any site seeing?
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how prepared do you feel to take 10 science courses in 1 semester
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what community service activities are you involved in (after seeing it in my file)
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Are you intrested in Post graduation.
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How do you like boston. why this school?
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Why you want to be dentist.
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How about this weather...
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What made you apply to BU and why do you want to move to Boston?
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Would you prefer to attend an in-state school?
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What do you do for fun?
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Something about manual dexterity.
What was the most interesting question?
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 reflections on application components. While some interviews were more conversational, others delved into specific aspects of the applicants' backgrounds and motivations. It appears that the interview format may have included MMI (Multiple Mini Interview) scenarios as well as standard questions, potentially under a nondisclosure agreement.
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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?
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What do you do for fun?
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Questions about my life!
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I was asked about a local museum and we talked about it for half the interivew
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Are you a vegetarian?
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Asked about my horse.
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We talked about baseball.
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we talked about spirituality and being in touch with yourself - questions on this topic
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normal questions
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What's with some of your grades?
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did you apply to tufts?
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What is your brother doing for school?
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Why did you shadow so many different specialists?
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Do you like the weather up here so far?
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Ethical question.
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None really.
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They asked a lot about my application and the essay.
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Discussion, extremely laid back interview
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Nothing really! She just let me do all the talking. She seemed very into everything I was saying
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How do you like Boston so far?
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What do you think the biggest problem in dentistry is today?
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The very first question the interviewer asked me--why is your Part 1 score JUST 87? I could see in which direction the interview was going...
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How would a professor or a close friend of your describe you?
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None
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Talk about your shadowing experiences.
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wht is my opinion regarding advertisements on teeth whitening?
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what do i like about my home town
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Do you have time to read for pleasure? What books?
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Nothing really
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why did you come to America?
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What do you do in your free time
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No odd or interesting questions
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Explain a portion of my application
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Why do you want to go to this school?
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How did you prepare for you DAT?
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What makes you think you'll be a good fit in BU?
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Why do you want to be a dentist?
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Nothing
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Basicly went over my application files and clear up some stuff with me. Nothing hard.
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The interview was very informal...more of a conversation...I got asked about courses I did not take
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Why dentistry?
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Though I had a regional, I also visited the school and I was given a tour which impressed me. Why Boston?
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how would you choose your wife? parents or u urself?
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It was all pretty straight forward about things on my app.
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why would you want to live in boston?
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Why BU?
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I didn't have a most interesting question...just why bu? the rest of the questions were in the form of a conversation so that's it.
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N/A
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Where all did you apply?
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how long will you be staying and what are you planning to do during your stay in Boston?
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Do you like watching broadway shows?
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Nothing in particular,Just a casual conversation
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nothing specific
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How have you enjoyed volunteering for Big Brothers?
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what is your state dental school like?
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If every school you applied takes you,which schools would you opt?
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What kind of people did you meet in undergrad?
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What kind of food do you cook?
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Tell me about your opera singing.
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Why do you look different from your photo.
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What have you been doing since graduation?
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Where do you see yourself in five years?
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Do you like the Red Sox
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Just the usual predictable questions, nothing too interesting.
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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)
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Do you think the plastic surgeon pulled my skin too tight?
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So you got here alright?
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usual stuff nothing different
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What would be most interesting for you in dental school?
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Where else did you apply?
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Nothing serious really ... maybe .. tell me about your research.
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he read my essay, and asked me a question about how i felt leaving my family @ 17 and goin to university 1/2 way around the world
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No really in depth question was asked.
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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.
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"You've applied to alot of programs in alot of locations. What is your reasoning and criteria behind that?"
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why boston? (i'm from boston)
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Would you really want to move to a cold place like Boston?
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What do you think about the Scott Petersen trial?
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Won't you just go to UConn? (ct resident)
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So why did u choose this to be a dentist. I did most of the talking.
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who recommended BU to you?
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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)
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Tell me about BYU (undergrad)
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what's your definition of being a professional?
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How do you de-stress?
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I have this pain in my right arm and shoulder, how would you treat it with accupuncture?
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do you do hindi classical dancing (im east indian)
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Did you have anything to eat?
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What I liked to do in my spare time.
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How do you compare other schools you have been interviewd at to this school?
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tell me about your hometown?
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Why Boston and not a California School?
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What are your hobbies
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What do you like MOST about yourself?
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What are the top 5 schools in Canada
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name the top 5 schools in canada
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Are you coming here for a hair stylist interview?
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What aspect of the program intrigued you the most?
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Why go into dentistry?
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How many schools did I apply to?
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what I thought of boston
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Right when I walked in the first question he asked was Why doesn't your last name end with "ian?" (since I am persian)
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In which field do you want more exposure after(if) being admitted into the school?
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What question did you not wish I had asked
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What age do mormons usually get married?
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How is the economy doing in _____ (the place where I live)
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I cant remember actually being asked a 'real' question!(except for maybe "how are you enjoying Beantown so far?"
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Do you use sports as a way to relieve stress?
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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."
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Do you think you will be happy to study here? (This question is hard to answer when I am first time there.)
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How did you you program palm pilots? (after reading of my old job in my file)
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Nothing real interesting about the interview questions.
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nothing really interesting...just wanted to know about family members, and wanted to know what I thought about the yankees/sox match-up.
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How did you like living in Vancouver?
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why psycholinguistics (a class i took)
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What do you enjoy about your program?
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Do you want to specialize?
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Can you handle this weather and this city?
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How do you handle stress?
What was the most difficult question?
Students said the most difficult question asked at Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine discussed a range of topics, from managing time in dental school to explaining why they chose dentistry over medicine. While many responses indicated a conversational and laid-back interview style, some mentioned specific questions about research, GPA, shadowing experiences, and preferences for dental schools in different locations. Some respondents may have experienced an MMI format, as nondisclosure agreements could have been in place based on several comments referencing a lack of challenging questions.
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How would you manage your time in dental school?
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Asked me about shadowing in another country (specific to my CV)
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none
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None. I even had to ask if the interviewer had any questions for me because I wasn’t asked about any of my accomplishments or ECs.
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none.
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Why dentistry? Why not medicine?
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no questions phased me.
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just a conversation
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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.
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What has changed since last years application?
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Convince me why you should be accepted.
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how does your research relate to dentistry?
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No difficult questions. It was just a conversation.
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Their weren't any hard questions. Just a conversation
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None. Very laid back.
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Do you have anything to ask us?
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Do you think you are ready for an education in dentistry after not being in school for almost 2 years?
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There were no difficult questions. Very casual conversation to get to know applicant
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What do you like least about dentistry....I feel like there is no good answer for this question!
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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!!!
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Talk about your shadowing experiences.
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nothin
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Nothing really.
-
they were all good enough
-
nothing
-
How I went from Herpes research to plant evolution research
-
Not asked any tough questions
-
n/a
-
Nothing really, it was more of a laid back conversation.
-
Why BU?
-
Why did you choose Boston?
-
no difficult questions
-
something along the lines of - if you're in clinic and the professor is harsh in criticizing your work, how would you respond?
-
No hard questions. It was more like a conversation.
-
Why Boston as opposed to Los Angeles where you reside?
-
Tell me about the last book you read (book?? who has time for books??)
-
why do you want to go to dental school?
-
None, they to want to make you feel very relaxed. If you prepare you will not be stressed out.
-
There wasn't a difficult question..the interview is more like a conversation
-
Nothing really
-
What's with your science GPA?
-
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.
-
no difficult question
-
Why did you choose not to waive your rights to look at the recommendation letters?
-
why were you rejected by upenn, without interview ,inspite of getting good score?
-
What will it take for you to attend here?
-
Nothing...at BU dont worry about any difficult questions.
-
I remember some of the other applicants got asked questions about healthcare
-
If say you were not accepted to any dental school, what would you do next year?
-
Nothing.
-
Who told you we have great patient pool? ( I was about to compliment on patient pool as my interest to BU, but he kinda denied it)
-
Why did you do better in JC classes compared to those taken at you four year institution?
-
Same as Above!!It wasn't dificult at all. The relax environment really made me feel like home.
-
Why not?
-
Nothing difficult, just the usual questions like strengths and weaknesses.
-
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.
-
Do you like the Red Socks?
-
None, questions were what I expected & had prepared for (:
-
Why whould you leave schools in Canada to go to the States?
-
Nothing Difficult
-
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
-
I wasn't.
-
Nothing difficult...it was about the things I did after I graduated and I told her everything, so I was fine.
-
"Explain the deficiencies on your transcript (classes withdrawn from, low grades).
-
nothing, the interview was very conversational and fun
-
What do you look forward to the least in dental school?
-
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
-
Won't you just go to UConn
-
There was no difficult questions because he just wanted to talk about that i liked.
-
most of the questions were those that were posted in this site
-
What should I tell the admissions commitee about you? (There was no really difficult question)
-
I cannot think of anything very difficult at all. I really cant stress how easy and natural the whole process was.
-
everything was what you'd expect
-
Nothing really. Just typical interview questions.
-
above
-
why did you apply to medical school
-
nothing difficult at all
-
Applications of my research project. But no questions was really difficult.
-
The one above.
-
nothing really...it was very relaxed, we mostly just chatted about boston and my hometown
-
none were difficult
-
What would you change about yourself?
-
What would u do if you got accepted to Boston and then a Canadian school... wouldn't u just go there ? afterall it would be less expensive right?
-
what would you do if u were accepted both at Boston and in canada..afterall it would be cheaper right?
-
What if I'm not very convinced that you are a good candidate, I'll give you a minute to convince me...
-
Why did you apply to so many schools?
-
Why Boston University?
-
Why did you apply to 16 schools?
-
None of the questions were difficult becuase the interviewer is trying to get to know you. And so, all of the questions are about you.
-
what difference do u think there in the treatment aspect in my native contry and USA
-
What question did you not wish I had asked
-
What else do you want to tell me?
-
What is my best/strongest quality?
-
Did you watch the red sox game the other night?
-
Your first semester you will be taking 19 units, I see that you have been taking only xx, what do you think about that?
-
why so many people from california applying for dental school.
-
How do you deal with stress?
-
na
-
What don't you like about yourself?
-
Why dentistry?
-
I see your grades have gone up and down. Can you explain that?
-
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)
🤝 Interview Format and Logistics ▼
How long was the interview?
Most respondents had an interview of 20 minutes.
How many people interviewed you?
Most respondents were interviewed by 1 person.
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.
📍 On-Site Experience ▼
Who was the tour given by?
Tours were most commonly given by a Student
How did the tour guide seem?
Most tour guides were enthusiastic about the school.
How do you rank the facilities?
Most respondents rank the facilities as above average.
What is your in-state status?
Most respondents rank the facilities as below average.
What were your total hours spent traveling?
Most respondents spent 4-6 hours traveling to the interview.
What was your primary mode of travel?
Most respondents traveled by airplane to the interview.
About how much did you spend on room, food, and travel?
Most respondents spent more than $500.
What airport did you fly into?
Respondents who flew to the interview generally used Logan International Airport (BOS)
-
united airline
-
providence,RI
-
no
-
logan
-
Logan International Airport
-
Logan International
-
Boston-Logan
-
Boston Logan (BOS)
-
Boston Logan
-
BOS
Where did you stay?
Most respondents stayed either Hotel or at a hotel.
What is the name of the hotel you stayed in?
-
roundhouse suites
-
marriott courtyard inn
-
holiday inn express
-
hilton
-
best western roundhouse suites
-
Yotel
-
Western Inn Roundhouse Suites
-
The College Club of Boston
-
Sheraton
-
Royal Sonesta
-
Milner Hotel
-
Midtown
-
Marriott
-
Marriot
-
Mariott
-
Long wood Inn
-
Holiday Inn Express @ Boston Ave.
-
Hampton Inn
-
Econolodge
-
Courtyard South Boston
-
Courtyard Marriott
-
Commonwealth
-
Boston Park Plaza Hotel
-
Boston Hostel (hemingway street)
-
Bestwetern
-
Bestwestern Roundhouse
-
Best Western roundhouse
-
Best Western - Roundhouse
-
Best Western
How would you rate the hotel?
Most respondents rated their hotel as good.
0 = Bad, 10 = Great
Would you recommend the hotel?
Most respondents would recommend their hotel.
What is your ranking of this school's location?
Most respondents rate the school location as good.
0 = Bad, 10 = Great
What is your ranking of this area's cultural life?
Most respondents rate the area’s cultural life as good.
0 = Bad, 10 = Great
What are your comments on where you stayed?
No responses
✅ Interview Preparation and Impressions ▼
How is the friendliness of the admissions office?
Most respondents said the admissions office was friendly.
How is the responsiveness of the admissions office?
Most respondents said the admissions office was responsive.
How did you prepare for the interview?
Most applicants prepared for the interview by utilizing resources such as Student Doctor Network (SDN), mock interviews, and researching the school's website. Some also mentioned practicing common interview questions, reading personal statements, and speaking with current or former students for insights and advice.
-
SDN, mock interviews, research the school, read personal statement
-
SDN, mock interviews
-
I prayed, reviewed the website, knew my answers by heart to the common questions.
-
Just go in with a positive attitude
-
SDN and mock interview provided by my college
-
sdn
-
SDN, practice questions, school research
-
SDN!
-
Looked at their website. SDN.
-
SDN interview feedback, mock interviews
-
read SDN Q, mock interview with mom, research on dental topics/dilemmas
-
CAAPID application files, SDN interview feedback, BU website
-
just prepared for the basics, but honestly it wasn't necessary.
-
Read interview feedback.
-
Read interview feedback posts, spoke to current/former students.
-
Prepare to give an answer for anything they ask about what's on my application file.
-
SDN, mock interview
-
mostly winged it... did a mock interview prior
-
just tried to relax.
-
I read sdn, looked at school's website, and talk with students from the school
-
coached responses for common questions
-
Interview feedback.
-
SDN, website
-
Studentdoctor.net
-
Feedback forum, read more about the school
-
Read over my AADSAS and SDN
-
I didn't.
-
SDN Int. Feedback questions and practice answers, AADSAS application, Personal Statement, and BUHGSDM website (Boston dental school, hehe).a
-
Spoke from the heart..
-
SDN, BU website, my app
-
SDN and mostly their school website
-
Sdn, BUSDM website
-
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
-
The norm. interview practice and researched the school.
-
reading my AADSAS essay
-
general replies based on interview experiences on SDN
-
SDN threads, few friends who have been studyings in BU.
-
read SDN, thought about general questions
-
Read over the website for about an hour, looked up past questions on SDN, and practiced for a few hours.
-
sdn, adea file
-
SDN, school website
-
thru sdn,school's website.
-
sdn .website
-
Reading SDN, talking w/ my dentist who graduated from BU dental, reading the website.
-
Looked over school's info through website
-
sdn and more sdn.. also the school's website.. and some other interview stufff
-
sdn feedback, school website, my school's career center mock interview materials
-
just was my self
-
sdn, aadsas application and schools wedsite (excellent resource)
-
SDN, BU website
-
SDN, talked to BU student, Reviewed application, school website
-
reviewed the website and talked with a student who attends the school.
-
SDN, AADSAS application, shcool's website
-
school website
-
SDN, School's website, read my application. Walked the Freedom Trail and had a great Clam Showder bowl the night before!
-
Read every interview feedback entry.
-
SDN, read personal statement
-
Website
-
Mock interviews and advice from BUSDM Alumni
-
SDN, interview books, sister
-
read SDN forums and interview feedbacks, looked at BU website, practiced common interview questions, mock interviews
-
Read website; SDN
-
SDN, my application stuff, mock interview and school websites
-
through school's website, google some sites and through this site
-
this site, re-read my app.
-
BU website
-
SDN, BU's Dental School website, read my essay, reviewed my application.
-
Read information on the school
-
SDN, mock interviews, school website
-
Sdn,school's website,read thru my reume and sop.
-
Website, networked, SDN
-
application, SDN, school website
-
sdn, bu website, previous interview
-
School Website, SDN
-
sdn,school website
-
SDN website and tried to be myself
-
sdn,friends ,bu site
-
Walked freedom trail, ate a lobster
-
sdn, website, reread personal statement
-
Went throught this website & spoke to friends at school.
-
SDN, feed back from students
-
sdn forums
-
sdn,books from public library .
-
SDN interview feedbacks (although there werent that many recent ones), website, aadsas application
-
SDN, review application, mock interview
-
SDN, interview websites
-
SDN ask friends in BU
-
Boston website and this site.
-
BU Webpage and SDN
-
Ate breakfast
-
Didn't.
-
Mock interviews.
-
I didn't
-
BU web site and this site as well. Reviewed my personal letter.
-
SDN website
-
general stuff, talked to dentist, dental students, read SDN
-
BU website, this site, and friends at BU
-
SDN, BU website, The introductory lecture about the program on the interview day, Saw my favorite movie the day before.
-
Visited the BU website, talked to a current student, SDN
-
school's website
-
talked to people, sdn, read bu's website
-
SDN, read my essay, read school website
-
(1) Talked with my friend who is a DMD-4 at BU (2) Surfed their website (3) Read about the school in my ADEA guidebook
-
sdn, b.u. website, thought out questions/answers
-
Read the SDN website, read the BU website, talked with my dentist, and practiced answering questions that I found in various books and websites.
-
I studied the website and referred to other posted responses.
-
previous interviews
-
sdn, school website, school catalogue the school send you, interview questions
-
SDN and school's website
-
tour, website....
-
sdn, application, school website
-
review my app, SDN, website, other folks,
-
School's website, information booklet/brochure, my application, SDN
-
Read this site, read other interview questions on web, read their site and was myself!
-
looked over reviews with sdn, and checked out the school website
-
read of brochure, online website, sdn
-
school website, visit, brochure, etc.
-
read the website info, browsed stud.doc
-
read the website, re-read my application
-
Internet
-
Read similar review like this one, practised with friends
-
Read up on the BU website, studentdoctor.net, the usual.
-
SDN, friens and school's website
-
SDN, application
-
Looked through the website and my essay. I also asked advice from my dentist.
-
website, brochure, current students
-
visiting bu website and sdn
-
I read over my application and the school website
-
Read the website
-
Read website and my essay & SDN. My advice – talk to any students you may know there.
-
Read website and my essay.
-
Read the website, read over my own app
-
Web site--very informative, and looked over my essay.
-
Read the info on BU website, SDN, reviewed my application and read my personal statement.
-
I read the website, ask questions from SDN, and email forth and back with the faculty.
-
I only prepared for the question "Why do you want to be a dentist". Read their website.
-
BUSDM website. SDN forums. Talked to a friend on the admissions committee of a different school.
-
Pray for a peaceful heart. SDN, school website, RELAXED
-
Read through the BU website and reviewed my applications.
-
School website although no questions of this nature were asked.
-
the website.
-
SDN & school website
-
looked at website, re-read resume and essay
-
BU's website and SDN
-
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.
-
I reviewed my application.
-
I flew to the location, dawned a suit, and showed-up on time.
What impressed you positively?
Applicants were positively impressed by the laid-back and welcoming atmosphere at the school, where faculty, staff, and students were friendly, supportive, and approachable. Common highlights included the high-tech facilities, diverse student body, emphasis on hands-on experience through programs like APEX and externships, and the supportive and collaborative learning environment. The positive interactions with faculty, the city of Boston, and the overall commitment of the school to student success were also noted as key factors that left a strong impression on applicants.
-
Laid back interview, didn't feel like I was being interrogated
-
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.
-
Their passion for helping the underserved, the tutoring resources, the support from the faculty!
-
The new facilities that will be finished being built Summer 2020 I believe
-
I liked how all the faculty and students kept reassuring us on how the interview is not super formal and extremely casual.
-
The history and presentation of the school
-
Friendliness, research opportunities and specializing opportunities
-
the collegiality of the students/faculty
-
All their externship opportunities and their APEX program.
-
Everything, loved it
-
facilities are nice (although this isnt really important to me). the students are a good mix of fun and intense (goal -oriented)
-
great faculty, very kind and friendly
-
faculty were so nice. very laid back environment.
-
The faculty was very friendly. So was the admissions office.
-
Nothing.
-
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.
-
Happy and helpful faculty.
-
everyone was super kind and welcoming and funny
-
The openness of the faculty and administration with students.
-
Everyone at the school is very friendly and happy to be there.
-
stress free interview, great facilities
-
Students were SO chill and nice. :) A lot of spanish speaking patients, so if you speak spanish youll have NO shortage. Tour guide was AWESOME.
-
APEX program, no block exam but an exam per week, research, very involved with the community
-
I've been in boston for 6 years, and the place is awesome~~!!! good people and good place to hang out and definitely a good place to learn.
-
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.
-
slack attitude
-
APEX and Externship opportunities!
-
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.
-
externship program
-
nothing
-
Laid back environment. Very friendly admissions team.
-
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 seemed very pleased about attending BU ad also seemed like a fun student body.
-
its a 2yr program for Advanced standing students
-
Friendliness of the staff and the vibrant city of Boston..
-
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.
-
How friendly the students and staff were.
-
the students really like their school
-
the school's staff were very nice, students really liked being there
-
the interviewer.
-
faculty
-
The staff, faculty and students that interacted with our group.
-
atmosphere, faculty and staff
-
everyone was super friendly.. treated us really well.. very relaxed atmosphere
-
friendly atmosphere
-
APEX program, good clinical program
-
The school/location/programs offered/research/clinical time.
-
the stress level at the school was low, everyone acted like a family
-
The faculty seemed nice, the sim lab was nice
-
n/a
-
people were pretty laid back and the faculty that we met seemed really nice.
-
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.
-
People are genuine. Have a real passion for dentistry.
-
The faculty seemed to really care about the students. APEX program is the only one of its kind in the US.
-
Facilities are nice. Labs are brand new.
-
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.
-
Very laid back atmosphere, stress on research with time specifically alotted to research
-
The facilities are beautiful. The faculty we met were very friendly.
-
My interviewer was very nice and Boston is a neat city. They are an established institution with strong roots in the community.
-
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.
-
friendly environment
-
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, enthusiasm of students
-
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 facilities, Dr.Shaw's intro. lecture, the professors who dropped by to speak with us, and the interview day was well organized.
-
The students seemed friendly and very laid-back. In fact, the whole school gave off that vibe. Boston is an amazing city! The preclinic was nice.
-
Enthusiasm of tour guide,competitive atmosphere at the school,facilities in school.
-
laid back atmosphere, everyone wears scrubs and barely ever dresses up.
-
APEX and externship program. simulation center. The newly renovated 5th floor. The friendly learning atmosphere.
-
Apex, stimulation lab, and friendliness of teh faculties
-
Programs such as APEX and the externship opportunities
-
tour of school
-
Relaxed atmosphere, they interacted with us positively as if we are already selected
-
everyone will discuss both pros and cons ,HONESTLY
-
The city, the school, the students, the faculty, the facilities
-
programs like the APEX and externships, exams are spaced out where you have only one a week
-
the sim. lab, the faculty & students were very friendly & really made us feel at home.great school!
-
Very friendly atmosphere.
-
students, faculty, school (i.e. facilities and diversity of student body), Boston...awesome city
-
program director
-
students n the faculty r very warm.students look happy n satisfied.
-
extremely high tech facilities, diverse student body and patient pool. free shuttle to and from main campus and medical campus.
-
The environment and how high tech the school was
-
the facilities were really good and used a lot of new technology. City is beautiful.
-
no
-
Everyone was very friendly and happy to be attending/working at BU.
-
The facilities are awesome. No wonder BU is one of the most expensive schools out there; they really invest in their school and it shows.`
-
Everything was extremely calm.
-
Nothing at all. The foor wasn't bad.
-
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.
-
I thought the facilities were top notch.
-
I got the chance to visit Tufts. Tufts is a much better school.
-
Great program.
-
students were very positive and happy
-
School is very nice and faculty members are so warm and friendly.
-
How relaxed it was
-
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.
-
how laid back it was...and how the interview was NOT structured...so that the faculty generally just wants to get to know the type of person u are.
-
Being in a big city, good facilities.
-
Tour, Staff, Univ is fab, SLC!!!
-
Interview was more of an on-going conversation and I felt really comfortable. The interviewer was really open, honest, and candid which was cool.
-
i was not impressed at all. but if i had to pick something, the facilities were new.
-
the interviewer was nice, friendly, helpful, and genuine. he just wanted to make sure that i would really go to boston for dental school.
-
Sim-lab. High tech. APEX.
-
(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".
-
nice facilities, cool looking sim lab if that's what you're into
-
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.
-
students were happy with their college and the staff were open to any tyoe of questions
-
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
-
The people there were saying that they are receptive to change. So if something is not going well, they will change it quickly.
-
great facilities and location
-
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...
-
APEX, sim suite, aerodynamic dental chairs....
-
how nice the interviwer was, the new simulation clinic
-
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 sim labs were very nice! The city is also great, but very busy.
-
The EXCEL program, APEX program, and their externship for 12 weeks.
-
their committment to the students, very impressive simulated learning center, high-tech equipment, staff and students seem cohesive
-
Very friendly faculty
-
its easy to tell that its a good school during the visit there
-
The school, the students, everybody was so friendly and nice. faculty members were very nice and welcoming.
-
high tech facilities beautiful city
-
how laid back the entire thing was...sooooo different from Canadian interview experiences
-
The interviewers positive attitude regarding the program. The interviewer had a lot of supplemental information for me after the interview.
-
The school is very technologicly savvy - All textbooks on DVD - a digital library - sounds very cool.
-
The atmosphere was definitely very relaxing and my interviewer is extremely nice and friendly.
-
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.
-
faculty is very welcoming
-
The school schedule and curicullum
-
The Simulation Learning center. The faculty are really close with the students.
-
The facilities (Now I know where the tuition goes.) and the faculty. The faculty are really really close with the students.
-
atmosphere, faculty, the city
-
Everyone I talked to was awesome, the dental students and faculty. They made everyone feel very comfortable.
-
The facilities were really nice and the students were very friendly and looked happy. I felt very comfortable.
-
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.
-
I liked the APEX program (a lot). The interview itself was very comfortable.
-
The APEX program, seems to be the most proactive program to help students transition from school dentistry to real world dentistry.
-
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")
-
the simulation clinic and you work with patients starting your first year
-
School is really good, new lab that is impresive.
-
The facilities, and attentiveness of the administration.
-
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!
-
The relaxed atmosphere, and positive attitude of the students.
What impressed you negatively?
Applicants were commonly concerned about the high cost of tuition, outdated facilities, lack of patient exposure, unprofessional interview experiences, and the surrounding neighborhood. Suggestions include improving interview processes, updating facilities, increasing patient pools, and addressing the high cost of attendance to enhance the overall experience for applicants.
-
none
-
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.
-
Nothing, I actually don't know why this school doesn't have a good reputation in SDN. The whole faculty and staff were very nice.
-
The surrounding area, the South End is pretty sketchy
-
Interview style made it difficult for me to talk about myself.
-
N/A
-
I'm still not fully convinced Tufts, BU, and Harvard have enough patients for all three schools.
-
NOTHING
-
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.
-
Clinic was empty and students were found in the clinic calling their patients to schedule.
-
facilities were on the older side, not too busy clinic (i consider this to be a bad thing)
-
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.
-
Long interview day, with many presentations. Interview itself was not pleasant at all.
-
not much
-
Large class size and older facilities.
-
Nothing. The school was great!
-
locale
-
You have to schedule your own chair. Facilities a bit outdated.
-
High tuition!!! 369K to be exact, Seems not enough chairs and patients sometimes.
-
The faciliity is a bit old.
-
Empty waiting room
-
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.
-
$$$
-
Everyone does not have their own chairs. It doesn't seem like they get that much clinical experience since grades are based on "competency" rather than a set number of procedures. I'm not sure how good the patient pool is (Tufts and Harvard are all close by). The cost/high cost of living.
-
How expensive the school is, expect to be in 300K+ debt by the time you graduate. US students can get 100% loans but if your not a US citizen it will be harder to finance education here, but they have alot of options to help you out.
-
facilities are kindof old and beat-up
-
Interviewer took phone calls during interview and I asked all of the questions. the whole day was really boring. bad presentations, boring tour that lasted forever.
-
Tuition
-
I wanted so badly to love the facilities of the school since I am a Mass Resident and loved the atmosphere of the school...but the other posts are right..it's still not quite as good as a lot of other dental schools. not to say that you wouldn't get a good education from these facilities, they just aren't quite as nice for the price of the school
-
$$$$
-
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.
-
infrastructure, clinics, patient pool
-
None.
-
I've only seen less than 5 dental schools, but I hope they upgrade the clinic. High Tuition
-
Single biggest turnoffs are the location and facilities. The school is across from a mental institution and the jail. The facilities are old.
-
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
-
there was break but the office staff continue to talk to u during break.
-
strict interviewer
-
The price tag!
-
tuition price tag
-
--
-
cost. haha
-
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.
-
super slow interview process..not very organized
-
the facilities seemed kind of old, got a mixed reaction from students. Was not able to get a clear vibe about happiness of students
-
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
-
the facilities were a bit old and students seemed stressed (I guess that's typical though)
-
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 facilities are DRAB. Nothing seems to have been updated. Lecture rooms are tiny. Cafeteria is GHETTO. Food does not look appetizing.
-
Could use a bigger lab area.
-
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.
-
nothing really
-
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.
-
The school is really expensive. Some parts of the school seem old.
-
didnt match my dreams
-
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 weather
-
Cost, your looking at close to $320K for four years of dental education!
-
COST!
-
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.
-
School building is pretty old,school still beleives in sticking to conventional techniques in dentistry.
-
There didn't seem to be the emphasis on student life that there was elsewhere.
-
nothing.
-
the neighborhood where the school is located
-
Cost
-
interviewer seemed uninterested
-
It was freezig cold.
-
not enough chairs, some of the facilities don't look that great (apparently there is this building that they don't show you that is in very bad shape)
-
the extreme cold and high cost of living
-
limited space for the school
-
the cost of attending the school and cost of living in Boston. the day didnt run according to schedule as planned, things ran late.
-
The cost of the school
-
location
-
tour was too long. Interview was short and sloppy Interviewr showed his unconcern
-
A dental student didn't come for lunch as mentioned in the schedule. But, they did apologize.
-
TUITIONNNN and the overal cost of living
-
A bunch of idiots were in my group so it made me feel pretty dumb, one kid didn't even want to be a dentist, but he got an interview?
-
The interviewer was totall confused with my application and had it mixed with someone else's.
-
There was alot of waiting, the school did not seem as lively as I would like it to be.
-
The interview was very unorganized. I just got the feeling things were not planned properly.
-
I thought Dr. Shaw was a caring person. Turns out that the woman is just a fake. She actually answered a call during the interview. How rude.
-
Low ceilings. Sim lab was across the street.
-
Nothing, the price is a bit high but I believe it's worthed.
-
nuthin
-
VERY COSTLY!!!!!
-
well i didn't VISIT, but nothing negatively impressed me.
-
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.
-
Nothing really.
-
Not much. The hotel was a little hard to find but that was really it.
-
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.
-
nothing negative. i just wish that i would've visited boston instead of having a regional interview- i hear boston is a great city.
-
old part of the buildings. they look like they're about to fall apart.
-
Wow, Boston can be cold...but you knew that.
-
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!
-
like everyone else said your goin to pay to stay....
-
I didnt know untill after reaching the school that APEX and Externship were not for PASS students.
-
Tuition. If I believe all of my mentors, I should be able to handle the repayment of loans in a timely fashion though.
-
Nothing really. I guess the high tuition is a negative. For me however, it is not such a big deal.
-
Price.
-
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.
-
cost of everything...$$$$$$
-
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!!)
-
the area wasnt the greatest, but even then was still good.
-
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.
-
the cost of the school and everything else in the city
-
No parking space(though I didn't need it)
-
tution of school.
-
price
-
the Canadian acceptance question was a bit uncomfortable...
-
tuition fees...damn...
-
Absolutely None..
-
The price of tuition!
-
The price.
-
Since I was in Miami, I didn't have a chance to get a tour of the school.
-
Tuition is very costly. Facilities are a little old. Although they add new operatories, they should consider renovating the current ones.
-
climate
-
Cost!!
-
Cost, fact that it is in a really urban setting.
-
High tuition and high cost of living.
-
The living cost and the traffic.
-
I didnt really get to see the school since it was regional.
-
I wish I had not done a regional interview. After talking with him, I really would have liked to have been at the school.
-
bad traffic to get there; I am glad I was on time
-
There is only one building and it seemed packed with people running around. Each of the floors were small and packed with patients and students.
-
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.
-
Boston is a big city, not sure that's were I want to be, and tuition is very high.
-
seems like everyone only studies and is swamped with work
-
They don't have seats still they called us for interview. They told on the day of interview that we don't have any seat for this year.
-
I should have gone to the school for the interview so I would have a better idea of what it is like
-
The cost plus there is no housing for dental students
-
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.
-
The cost was a substantial deterrent when compared to other options.
What did you wish you had known ahead of time?
Most applicants found the interview day at Boston University to be relaxed and stress-free, with interviewers being friendly and the process more of a conversation than a formal interview. Some mentioned wishing they had known about the school's location in relation to public transportation and the overall cost of attending the program.
-
none
-
Really not much. SDN forum was pretty accurate to how the interview went.
-
None.
-
How chill it was going to be
-
There are literally no interview questions. Throw all of the typical interview questions out the window.
-
How relaxed the day would be.
-
It's pretty relaxed
-
The interview day is quite long. They provide lunch and a small breakfast.
-
no coffee. everything else was pretty standard dental interview style
-
nothing, just be familiar with each word on your application files.
-
nothing in particular.
-
The school is far away from the T stops. It's a 20 minute walk from the nearest T. I think this contributes to their lack of patients.
-
nothing
-
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.
-
you can bring coats and bags
-
Bring a picture of yourself!
-
That the whole day is very relaxed and stress-free.
-
nothing was surprising
-
Girls- just wear flats. Its gonna be a lot of stairs.
-
Nothing. Just know it's very cold in January.
-
They do tours first and then the interview. So you have some time to think of some things to ask them.
-
How laid back it was
-
easy peasy
-
That the interview was going to be so relaxed!
-
How incredibly easy the interview was!
-
How laid back, helpful, and friendly everyone was going to be.
-
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
-
That its important to KNOW somebody in the school.
-
That the interview was actually just a conversation.
-
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 this was so easy.
-
that the interview is not as laid back as sdn says :(
-
its not that laid back as people tell on sdn
-
that it was going to be so easy
-
holiday inn express was too far from BU, wished i booked hotel near BU like bestwestern roundhouse or hampton inn suite...
-
That Bostons 1st and 2nd year courses are taught by the chairperson of that subject. ie Biochem- taught by Biochem chair
-
the area around it. i was told by the hotel manager that it is not that safe, even at parts of the day.
-
You get free dental work as a student!!! Its cold so pack heavy. i knew this, but might want to inform others!!! :)
-
boston is colder then I expected and that people start drinking two days before st. pattys day at 11am.
-
that i didnt like the school and would have saved myself the trip
-
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).
-
EXCEL program which offers students the option to start a month early to get accustomed to the campus.
-
The cost of living.
-
That the interview and the day in general would be so stress free
-
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 the interview was going to be this easy.
-
Nothing.
-
fee icreases every year
-
Pretty much everything I read here was true
-
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!
-
School is really keen on high scores,strong recommendations and work exp. does help but end of the day it's the high score that matters.
-
they pay attention to every inch of your app.
-
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.
-
traffic
-
That the interview was a casual conversation
-
how much walking and talking they do before the interview, i was starving and exhausted by the time i started my interview
-
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 the interview was going to be laid back
-
that the whole process would be so relaxed
-
how windy Boston was and that I should've worn an overcoat.
-
that it would be a relaxing day with a very encouraging interviewer who was also very nice.
-
Dont stay at Bestwestern around BU. Watch out a beard old dude (interviewer).
-
I was asked about my file. I don't think all interviewers ask about my grades and such. I may have just been unfortunate and got a tough interviewer.
-
That the place where I stayed at was goint to be so crappy!! Damn the place stinked.
-
It was going to be freezing.
-
That this place is not worth going to.
-
That the interview was going to be short and easy and my preparation was overkill. And they don't provide housing.
-
There was no interview, just conversation to make sure I wasn't a moron. Also that my flight was canceled.
-
n/a
-
Wish I knew it would be so cool and relaxed.
-
Nothing - I feel I was very well prepared.
-
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.
-
Nothing, I was really excited to visit BU and Boston in general so I had been asking a lot of questions ahead of time.
-
tough to get to using public transportation
-
DONT STAY AT THE HOSTEL>>>>>>BADDDDDDD
-
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.
-
That the process is really a pleasant one.
-
nothing; if boston's one of your top 5 choices, I'd opt for an interview that takes place in the campus, not a regional interview
-
The school is a long walk from the T (subway station). Late to interview
-
that i was being interviewed for a waitlist position...
-
how the interview was conducted..
-
that gettin a cheap hotel outside boston (i.e. in brooklyne) may have saved me $ but that the cab rides would have taken back what i saved
-
that it was gonna be so laid back. i wouldnt have stressed.
-
I wish I could have structured my thoughts a little better.
-
That there was nothing much to prepare for the interview..it was pretty laid back
-
that its a kick-back process
-
that they interview 900 people for 115 seats...
-
The weather. I was snowed in and stuck in Boston for a few extra days. But that really couldn't be helped.
-
Don’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.
-
I wished I had know how student orientated BU is. They are all about making their students happy. It has certainly moved up on my choice list.
-
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.
-
I wish I did not stress over the interview.
-
I wish I had known how impressive the school really is!
-
How friendly everyone is. There's no stress the whole time you're there.
-
how friendly the staff and facutly was
-
be patient because they have made decision before the interview.
-
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...
-
That the class was already full-That we were basically interviewing for alternate spots.
What are your general comments?
Applicants generally found the interview process at BU to be very relaxed and conversational, with a focus on getting to know the candidate. They appreciated the friendly and welcoming environment, but some mentioned concerns about the cost of attendance and the patient base.
-
don't stress! just be genuine!
-
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.
-
Overall amazing school! Hope I get in.
-
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.
-
It's a long day of interviewing! but everyone is super nice and welcoming
-
Great school, would love to go there
-
very relax
-
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.
-
I might go if it's the only place I got in. Otherwise, I'll be passing on BU!
-
none
-
great school, people are great
-
For all the negative comments on the SDN forums, BU actually seemed like a good place to spend 4 years.
-
The staff and faculty just really want to get to know you better and there is no need to stress about the interview!
-
great interview. very stress free and easy going
-
The students are SO nice. Wow. They really go out of their way to talk to interviewees. Really cool atmosphere.
-
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
-
I loved the school! and the people. Their responsiveness was great! I interviewed on Nov 30th and was accepted on Dec 1st.
-
Beautiful school. Very welcoming staff. I didn't think much of BU until I interviewed there.
-
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.
-
Really enjoyed the school overall. Large class size, but good teacher to student ratio. Best advice: be yourself.
-
while you are waiting for your interview during lunch...talk to the other students and relax! it was definitely the best thing i did to calm down
-
Wish they would have been more specific about available spots and had a time better time frame of when we can hear back
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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.
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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.
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As many others had said, the interview is very conversational and they just want to know you :)
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BU has everything going for it from a faculty and student perspective, but I can't justify the cost for the facilities that I saw.
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be yourself
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It seemed like a great school - the faculty seems to care a great deal about their students and want to help them succeed in every way.
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pretty good day all in all
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i became to love BU really =]
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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
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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.
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The interview was very relax and comforting. I really enjoyed my interviewer.
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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
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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.
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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
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It was great overall, I wouldn't stress about the interview; it's more like a conversation, just relax and be yourself.
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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.
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Wonderful. I've never had such a pleasant interview.
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BU sucks.
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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.
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Positive...the school is laid back, the students seem happy...the interviewers were very friendly and put you at ease
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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.
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It was a good experience to see the school and meet some of the administrators and students, but I think I expected more.
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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.
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good
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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Positive
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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.
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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.
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The interview was very laid back. They asked very simple and straightforward questions. But after some questions, the interview was like a conversation.
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Interview was very informative. The interviewer was very nice and laid back. It seemed more like a conversation than an interview.
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It was nothing like an interview.They behaved as if we are visitors there and they have to show the place around.
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very informal they just want to know you so be honest
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Breakfast, introductory talk, tour, interview, lunch, financial info.
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Good experience but tiring. They are very nice and willing to answer all questions.
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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.
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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.
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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!
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felt very good after the whole interview day.Got the best treatment here
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great
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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.
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everyone was really friendly and laid back. The tour of the scool took about an hour and a half.
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good.
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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.
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The interviewer was nice but she asked some easy questions and some tough ones regarding my file.
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Very good. The city is extremelly academic and BU's curricullum is awesome. I got accepted the 20th and am very happy about it.
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Just a conversation to make sure that I wasn't a moron. It must have worked cause I got in.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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It was just great. I did come out not knowing where I stood. If I could be hopeful or not.
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Relaxed and very smooth, Dr. Stoute just want to know me and see what I was like, nothing more. It was what an interview shoud be like!
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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.
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best interview yet, mind u...i haven't had many :(
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The schools seems pretty nice. But it is definitely COLD in Boston. The whole day was pretty laid back.
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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.
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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.
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"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.
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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.
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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.
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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! :-)
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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.
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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!
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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...
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On the whole it was a good experience I got to know more abt the school during the tour when compared to their website.
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I love Boston, and I feel I will get an impeccable clinical education here.
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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.
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be honest and tell your interviewer your true passions in life
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It was a relaxing day. Not too stressful.
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positive...i loved the city...good transit system...
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laid back. more like a chat then an interview
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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
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awesome. i like the school. hoping they like me too. cost is a little much, but youll make it back after a few years in the workforce.
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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.
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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.
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the fact that our tour was given by a member of the administration wasn't very helpful, it would have been better to have a student show us around.
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neutral
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The school was very very friendly and I really enjoyed it.
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interview was straight forward and like a casual conversation. nothing to sweat about.
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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.
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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...
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great...extremely laid back... great location... 4 Seasons baby!
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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.
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Very positive
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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.
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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 :-)
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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.
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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???
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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.
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it was really good experience and wish i may get admitted there.
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It was very relaxing.
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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.
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I really liked BU and Boston. I would love to be accepted here!
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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.
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I would be happy to go to Boston
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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.
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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.
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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
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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.
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Just relax; they are pretty lay back. they just want to get to know you more.
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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.
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Overall a great school! The overall gpa/dat scores of current students belies this however.
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great, really make you feel at home-not to worry.
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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.
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Positive. Was told I will be admitted at the end of what seemed to be like a very short and brief 12 minute interview.
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This is a school that caters to their students. If you are looking to go to school in Boston I think this is a school to consider.
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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 appreciate a detailed itinerary for the admissions process and suggest providing more efficient updates and quicker responses. Some also mentioned the need for better organization during the visit, such as moving to different rooms for presentations and minimizing wait times.
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Nothing! Pleased with the experience.
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No suggestions!
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Possibly move around to different rooms for presentations, staying in one room got a little tiring
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Give an agenda in the beginning of the day!
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There was a lot of time spent just waiting around.
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nothing, great faculty
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none at all.
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None
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more detailed itinerary in the invite email... didn't know what to expect
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Nothing. Very helpful.
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Quicker response and more efficient updates for the interviewers
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Let all the students interview with faculty, not random non-dentist administrators like I had to! D
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Don't call those students for interview in the early cycle whom you don't want to admit!!!
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keep up the good work!
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please do reply to students everytime they try to contact you.
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To have a recycling bin somewhere in the office.
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nothing. i just thank for their friendliness!
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