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Overall, applicants ranked the school in the top 25% of interviews, indicating it is highly regarded. They found the interview generally impressive with a moderate stress level and felt they did well.
Higher scores indicate a smoother, more positive interview experience with professional staff, organized logistics, and a supportive environment.
Based on 417 responses
Score Reference:
9โ10 Exceptional8โ8.9 Very Good7โ7.9 Good6โ6.9 Mixed< 6 Needs Improvement
The SDN Interview Experience Score (SIES) is a composite metric that represents applicants overall impressions of their interview experience, based on multiple factors such as professionalism, facilities, responsiveness, and stress levels.
How do you rank the facilities?
Most respondents rank the facilities as above average.
How do you rank this school among ALL other schools?
Most respondents rank this school above all other schools.
How do you rank this school among other schools to which you've applied?
Most respondents rank this school above other schools they applied to.
0 = Below, 10 = Above
What is your ranking of this school's location?
Most respondents rate the school location as good.
0 = Bad, 10 = Great
How is the friendliness of the admissions office?
Most respondents said the admissions office was friendly.
What is your ranking of this area's cultural life?
Most respondents rate the areaโs cultural life as good.
0 = Bad, 10 = Great
How is the responsiveness of the admissions office?
Most respondents said the admissions office was responsive.
๐ฌ Interview Questions โผ
What is one of the specific questions they asked you?
The most commonly asked interview questions at medical schools based on user responses encompass topics such as reasons for pursuing dentistry, future goals geographically, specific interests in dentistry, experiences leading to the decision, manual dexterity, professional qualities, financial plans for dental school, and decision-making processes for school selection. Many respondents mentioned questions related to professionalism and multiple inquiries about why they chose dentistry over other healthcare professions, with some interviews following the MMI format possibly under a nondisclosure agreement.
Tell me about you and what made you want to pursue dentistry
Why dentistry/Where did you apply to and why buffalo/why did you major in Anthropology (or nonscience)/Do you know what a typical day is like for dental students
(I'm from Canada) Why are you applying to the USA? How many schools did you apply to? Whereabouts are you in the application process? Where do you want to live after Dental School?
How do we know you can handle the science courses science you have only taken the required courses ask 3 times and every time I added more to it but it didnÃฦ¢ââโฌลก‰âโฌลพ¢t seem good enough for them. (I said everything from I got AÃฦ¢ââโฌลก‰âโฌลพ¢s in almost every science class, I got over 90th percentile on the DAT for my science average, nothing over a 20, nothing I said was good enough for them)
You say you like science so why have you only taken the required courses
Why did you choose to go to your undergrad school? If you could go back would you choose to go there again? - What other schools did you apply to/interview at?
Whats your definition of professionalism?
Why Dentistry?
Why study and go to Africa your last semester?
Why Buffalo? What is it about Buffalo, besides location and money, that makes you want to attend here?
What is it about dentistry that made you want to get involved with the profession? (the second interviewer in the room with us then asked me to define "professionalism". this question WILL be asked!).
Students said most interesting question asked at SUNY - University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine discussed various topics such as professionalism, conflict resolution, future aspirations, and personal interests. While some responses highlighted specific questions like "What does professionalism mean to you?" and "Where do you see yourself in 5/10 years?", the diverse range of inquiries indicates a comprehensive exploration of applicants' qualities and motivations.
We see you have had difficulty your initial semester of college. Can you tell us about it? - but if you don't want to you don't have to... it's really up to you so whatever you think (I tried to answer but they told me I was 'obviously bright so never mind the question') hmmmmm....
There was a question about professionalism. In follow up I was asked to give my opinion as to why students have never yet responded with a particular answer that the interviewers were looking for. (This stumped me! But not in an especially awkward way; more of a conversational way.)
What question would you like to have been asked by us, that we didn't ask you. What would you like the admissions com to know about you, that you have not already mentioned
Why are you studying in South Africa for 5 months? What kind of courses will you be taking there? Are you going to make it back alive to attend school here if accepted?
They refered to my essay and asked some things about me as a person aside from grades. I liked that very much and it gave me an opportunity to crack a few jokes and let them see me as more than just a predent grade obsessed freak of nature.
Students said most difficult question asked at SUNY - University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine discussed various topics such as reasons for choosing dentistry over other professions, handling career changes, selecting dental schools when accepted to multiple, and defining professionalism. Additionally, the interview format may have included an MMI setup with nondisclosure agreements, as some responses mentioned direct and indirect inquiries related to school choices and personal motivations for pursuing dentistry.
So a man that loves cutting trees becomes a lumberjack, but there are times when it rains outside and he doesnt like his job, can you say something similiar to dentistry?
As interviewers, we have the opportunity to plead your case to the larger admissions committee... Knowing that we represent you, and if I told you I can tell them anything you want me to, what would you want me to tell them?
Im a career changer (was in finance), they asked me why i liked science all of a sudden? Why dentistry now? Seemed to ask these two questions like a billion times....annoying!!!!
That's all the questions you have for me? (I must have asked them about 10 questions, which felt like a lot - especially given the fact that I was the one supposed to be interviewed - he still seemed to be disappointed that I didn't have more questions).
Tell me at least one thing that you find negative about dentistry. This is the only question that I suggest you prepare for. This is a trap question (the only trap question). Buffalo is specifically looking for positive people (I know because after I received my acceptance letter I asked one of my interviewers the reason for the question). I answered with a neutral answer like, I'm exactly, "I can't really think of anything bad off the top of my head...I guess it's a bummer when people cancel on you last minute."
So it seems like your father's dental office is the only shadowing experience you've had for general practice? (The only time they really challenged me, but eesh!)
Most respondents had an interview of 20 - 30 minutes.
How did the interview impress you?
Most respondents felt positively about their interview.
How many people interviewed you?
Most respondents were interviewed by 2 people.
What was the stress level of the interview?
Most respondents rated their interview as average stress.
How you think you did?
Most respondents thought they performed well at the interview.
What was the style of the interview?
Most respondents had a one-on-one interview.
What type of interview was it?
Most respondents had an open file interview.
Was this interview in-person or virtual?
Most respondents had a virtual interview.
Data includes both pre- and post-COVID interviews.
Where did the interview take place?
Most respondents were interviewed at the school.
How did you prepare for the interview?
Applicants commonly prepared for the interview by conducting research on Student Doctor Network (SDN), watching YouTube videos, reviewing the school's website, practicing mock interviews, studying their application, and talking to current students. They also emphasized the importance of knowing their own motivations for pursuing dentistry, being familiar with common interview questions, and being genuine and honest during the interview process.
3 mock interviews, practice with my boyfriend, read the school website, read this website, really took an honest look at my life and who I was *sounds cheezy I know, but it helped a lot*
Buffalo has a set list of questions that they ask everybody in addition to specific questions pertaining to your application. Look at all of the previous SDN entries for Buffalo--all of the standard questions are there--including "What is it to be a professional?"
read sdn, read interview feedback, rehearsed my answers to the typical interview questions. I also went through their website and came up with questions to ask the interviewers.
painted my nails, bought the cutest suit...oh, oh, I mean, I looked online for anything I could find about the school and looked up the word "professionalism" (they did ask me too )I think thats it
Applicants were overwhelmingly impressed by the friendly and welcoming atmosphere at the school, noting the positive interactions with both staff and students. They also highlighted the strong sense of community, individualized attention such as having their own operatory, and the emphasis on clinical experience as key positive aspects of their experience.
current students spoke highly of the school, new sim lab
All candidates waited together around a large table for their interviews. We were kind of forced to socialize and this actually relieved pressure and stress.
The students, staff, and faculty were all very friendly and accommodating. The students seemed to have a bond with their classmates and there was a sense of community within the whole school. Everyone had positive things to say about the school and it looks like they're happy there. In terms of the actual interview, it was very efficient and well planned out. It was very informative and honest, they weren't trying to sell the school to us.
Friendliness of students and faculty, strong clinical program, research opportunities, community service involvement, vertical tier system for clinic and family treatment...my ideal dental school.
Friendliness of student body. Every student gets their own chair. BOCA. Curriculum is intense but after speaking to the current students it isn't impossible.
Curriculum, facility, tuition, library! They were amazing!
I observed Korean D-students studied really hard together in the library when I was in school tour!
Every student I talked to seemed 100% happy with Buffalo and the education they were receiving. Clinical experience is very good and every student is assigned THEIR OWN chair in the clinic for their 3rd and 4th years which is unique for a larger class size.
Individual chairs for each student for D3 & D4 and what good chemistry students had with each other, there seemed to be a great deal of camaraderie among the students.
enthusiasm and confidence of students, two month long breaks, the admissions committee meets and makes the decision right away, they just can't let you know before dec 1!!!
Alot. I came to the school with a neutral attitude and left feeling I could be a happy student there. The students and faculty are very nice and even funny. The structure of the classes are perfect and the building itself is better than I expected.
Nice city, decent parking situation, nice clinics- and you get your own. Extremely cheap tuition (for dental school) and its easy to become a NY resident. Oh, and the anatomy lab was awesome.
The fact that you get your own chair and it is yours for your last 2 years. The students seemed diverse and they seemed like they were close they studied together.
I was very impressed by how well the interviewers knew my application. It was obvious they put a lot of effort into learning about their candidates.
Buffalo is not as "in the middle of nowhere" as everyone claims it is. The facilities were quite nice, the students were laid back.
My interview was actually canceled cause of bad weather. but the school allowed a phone interview. It was great the way they treated me was most impressive.
You get your own operatory 3rd and 4th year. Seeing patients is a gradual process, so you're not thrown into someting you can't handle. It's a cheap place, easy to get in state tuition. The class size is small. The female dental students were really good looking (just an observation). You get good clinical experience in your last two years. The students are very laid back and helpful.
The staff and students were so warm and encouraging. They were open and willing to share information. I am so glad I went. It was a wonderful experience. I was a little worried at first, being a non-traditional student, and having read some previous posts, but I felt very welcome. I was also really impressed by the other applicants! They were all professional, smart and very friendly! I felt so lucky to be invited among them and hoped that I made as good an impression as they did!
Very impressed with Squire Hall, was very modern. Also learned that AT MOST, there is a 1:6 teacher:student ratio which is by far the best I have seen thus far.
Pretty much everything. All of the dental schools that I visited had mediocre labs, but I've heard you really don't need state of the art for your first and second years as didactic work dominates. Getting your own chair in clinic is magnifico! I think I'll get a fish tank for my op.
The clinics are AMAZING. In your third year you get your own clinic for the next 2 years that no one else touches! So everyone put up plants and fishtanks and photographs. The pedo clinic was really cute. (Oh, and the library was soooo cool!)
wonderful campus, friendly faculty, students were HAPPY, very strong emphasis on clinical experience, BRAND NEW SIM LAB, BRAND NEW chairs and equipments
Staff, students, and admin were extremely down to earth & I felt extremely welcome. Dr.Joynt (interviewer) wasreally knowledgable & invited me to explore their school further by asking the students any further questions. (I had a list) Low cost of living & can transfer residency to NY state by second year to take advantage of in-state rates, but must live off campus.
students get own operatory, and there are several departments in which you can be working in, pediatric etc - you can always help out during procedures even if you do not have to
I went around and spoke to several students. All of them had only great things to say about the school, they were all very happy and very friendly. The facilities were great, labs amazing, and you get your own chair for 2 years. Also I was able to look in on a lab class and there were like 10 faculty members in there helping students.. amazing :)
Thorough tour of the school. It was the first time I ever saw dead human bodies in gross anatomy lab. I also saw a dead siamese twins in a huge glass jar, cool!!!
students had GREAT personalities. met with 2 1st years and they were informative and comical...2nd years who gave the tour seemed very easy-going. EVERYONE was happy they chose buffalo
The faculty and staff were really friendly, as were the students, all of which I met seemed to really like the school. I also like having your own chair for the 3rd and 4th years.
Spacious, clean, well-lit, new equipment. New building. Liked the feel of the suburban campus. While initially skeptical, I think the electronic curriculum is a good idea and the way of the future for all other dental schools. You get your own operatory. There seemed to be a good deal of bonding among students and a sense of camaraderie in their tiered system.
Very clean. Students looked happy. The DVD curriculum. The fact that you have your own chair for the last too years - this is great ! Price of living. Its a clinical school.
beautiful operatories in the clinics that 3rd/4th yr students keep for their entire time there, cost, location, DVD curriculum, happiness of students that are in the program and general helpful attitude of the faculty/staff, use of computers throughout the curriculum, beautiful facilities
The clinics were really nice and clean, the faculty, staff, and student body were all friendly and in good spirits. The cost of tuition is really low as well.
The faculty were very genuine. They want the students to do well and become the best possible dentist. The facilities were very clean and modern. You get your own operatory for your 3rd and 4th years (nobody else will use it except you).
quiet area. the area doesn't have any distractions so that you can concentrate on your education. very relaxed environment. nice facility. i liked their library.
Applicants commonly expressed concerns about outdated facilities, lack of high-tech equipment, unorganized tours, location in Buffalo, cold weather, and unprofessional appearance of some students. Suggestions included updating facilities, improving organization of tours, enhancing the student dress code, and addressing concerns about the surrounding area and weather.
they didn't have a proper presentation for the school, mostly just Q&A
The only real negative I can think of is the location, at least at first glance. It's definitely a smaller, quieter town than I'm used to (I'm from Los Angeles and I'm a big city type of person) but I feel like I could get used to it. Some people might point out the weather, but I like cold weather and it's not that bad.
How unclean students were. (sorry!)
Mostly with dirty clothes and very (VERY) oily hair. I suppose it was during finals! But it wasn't something you want to see in a dental or medical school! :(
Few of interviewees commented on that while we were talking (that obvious it was!)
In tour of Squire H. and basement we saw maybe two clean students with nice clothes and nice hair, maybe some makeup. I'm not even sure if she was a student or staff.
No sim lab but it shouldn't make a difference as students still come out more clinically prepared than other schools with sim labs. Facilities were a little bit older than others but no means of losing efficiency. And the worst was the tour, our tour guide practically sprinted through the whole school. We spent more time in the library than the dental school!
Pre-clinical laboratories were very unexciting and old to say the least. However, students felt that state-of-the-art equipment wasn't necessary for an easy transition to clinic.
Everything else: the location sucks, the faculty seemed old, set in their ways and just sloppy (one of the professors interviewing even had his shirt untucked the WHOLE time...ughh! The installations are old and they dont even have a computerized simlab. And Buffalo?? ughhh.....ugly, grey, boring, rundown......what can I tell you...not a fan....
Facilities are on the old site - there were no high-tech sim-labs like in all other schools I saw/interviewed in. The schools looks/feels like a cold-war communist compound
The tour guide was a 2nd year student that didn't really know his way around. We also got teased by students of the school - but hey, how could you resist poking at 12 sweating interviewees that clearly aren't used to getting 'dressed to impress' ;)
nothing much, except they don't have a sim lab. (students, however, seemed confident and skilled enough. They are given adaquate training to perform just as well as any other dental school students. or so they said)
The facilities. The guide said they weren't state of the art, and he was right. They aren't awful, they just weren't as upto date as other schools may have. The local area. Its not the nicest location. Buffalo itself is cool but its close to a 10 minute drive from the school. It obviously snows alot and is cold.
There is no sim lab just heads on a stick, and it look very very old and dirty. The city is grey all the time. The faculty seemed very old, not personal, un aproachable.
You don't start seeing real patients until your 3rd and 4th year, so lot's of preclinical stuff your first two years. As we were getting the tour, one student told us not to be surprised if we see cockroaches. The lecture rooms were dimly lit and a student told us if you sit in the back you might get wet when it rains because of the holes in the ceiling (the tour guide was not happy with that remark!). The library was not impressive. They show you a very outdated video of the school.
the whole day wasnt extremly organized. they didn't really give us a lot of information regarding the school and the program. we only got to meet a few students.
I got a lot of hints that the administrators are more formal with each other and with students than at most schools (no one refers to each other by first names). Made it a little less relaxes.
Fairly unorganized...I felt as though the whole day was just kind of slapped together..I didn't particularly like that. It took a long time for all the interviews to conclude, so we were waiting for quite a while.
made a pitstop in the cafeteria after interview day was over -- looks like i'll bring my food everyday to school if i go to buffalo! ....also, on a serious note, i got the impression from my interview that Buffalo would really like to have me come to their school but so much emphasis was placed on where else i had applied and where else i had itnerviewed -- i go the sense that they thought their school was inferior to these other schools -- which isn't true! especially after seeing the school...i thought it was great.
I drove around the area and found that the "ghetto" was between the school and the true downtown of Buffalo, but the school itself is practically in the suburbs (the North campus is definetly in the suburbs, and really nice too) Winters - but that means awesome sking too.
The cold wasn't bad, but the wind was a bit much. I was disappointed that the clinics were empty when we took our tour. I wanted to see the students and faculty in action! I arrived the day earlier and was told (by Barbara) that I shouldn't go into the clinics on a self guided tour. This was really different from other schools that I went to where they encouraged me to roam freely. The profs and other students didn't seem really care too much about the fact that impressionable, potential students were in their midst. The pace of life around Buffalo seems slow (for example, it took me 30 min to check out my food from the grocery store). I was disappointed to hear that the cafeteria on the dental school's campus closed after lunch.
Besides the fact of my interviewer saying "don't be nervous 10 times" I was fine until he starting repeating that. The area and weather. Did not get to see any of downtown buffalo b/c of a blizzard (65mph winds and snow). The clinic was one huge area with no division among chairs. As a patient I would be a little freaked out. Also, students were nice and content with their education, but nobody seemed to be excited on the school. Everyone I met was from Northwestern NY so I felt like they attended just b/c it was a close school in the area.
Applicants commonly wished they had known about the interview format and duration, the importance of being well-prepared for questions, the relaxed atmosphere of the interview, the need for earlier arrival due to location challenges, and the significance of asking questions and engaging with interviewers. Suggestions included practicing responses, being aware of the school's environment and facilities, and considering potential conversation topics.
There was no writing sample or case scenario. Just one open file interview with 2 staff members. Interview was supposed to be 30 minutes but mine took about 40-45.
I was worried about my answers in the interview since I was rather nervous throughout it and sometimes struggling for words. They were very kind and I knew, after the fact, that they were rooting for me. Just go in there with confidence and be genuine and honest. Also, don't worry about the written essay. It's a general question and quite simple to answer. If you're well-read and have practice writing short-response answers for in-class tests, you'll do well.
That we wouldn't have a tour of the library and the dinning building because it would take too much time. Also for the city buses, you would have to pay EVERY time you transfer to a different one (unlike nyc)
During lunch (after the interviews) you sit down with other members of the interview committee. While it is relaxed, stay polite and treat this time professionally.
That the Dean snowboards: it could have made for good small talk around lunch. Too bad I only found out near the end.
You can leave your coat/bags with one of the secretaries of the Admissions Committee - it's less awkward than leaving it at the patient scheduling desk :( lol...
The school is really big, and the tour is really small - you barely see any of it. So if you really want to see the school, schedule a full one (there are two campuses).
How impatient and short the interviewers were....didnt like them AT ALL. The write everything that comes out of your mouth...they might as well just record it...geeeessss
They ask you to be there at 8:45am and I thought it would start at 9:00 and arrived at 8:50am and they already had started (BE there at exactly the time they say) The reson I was 5min late was because the cab got lost - the signaling for the school is TERRIBLE. Even once IN the Buffalo campus it was very confusing - NO SIGNS WHATSOEVER. And people and cabs in Buffalo dont seem to have the slightest idea os where the dental school is located. Go WELL in advance - I left ONE HOUR before and, well, read above...
That you can never have enough questions to ask - but not to even worry about it. It's good to have questions prepared, but be sure that they will ALL be thoroughly answered + any that you could have possibly imagined
I wish I knew how nice the students were, I probably wouldn't be as nervous. Other than that I think I gained alot of postive thoughts about the school after the interview.
They decide if you're accepted after all 12 are done interviewing and you're touring the library. How's that for pressure? Ya....Oh yeah, don't lean in when looking at dead bodies, you'll get knocked out by the smell. Upstate New York people have accents, cool! Times Square is very far away.
since i didn't have a rental car, i was pretty much stranded at my hotel in the middle of nowhere. i wish i stayed in a hotel closer to downtown buffalo.
I can't think of anything except that I didn't need to be so nervous before I went. I think everyone was nervous at first and the Admissions Coordinator Barbara told us we need to relax a little! So we did, and then it was just enjoyable!
how much i should have prepared for the interrogation that they call "interview" and how you have no chance of rectifying things that might have gone wrong during the interview, since they make their decisions the same day.
Interview is quite laid back, but if you want to guarantee your admission, personalize your interview answers so that you'll give the impression that you WILL come to Buffalo and that education at Buffalo will provide the BEST education among all others.
Bundle up & moisturize well--the wind in Buffalo really picks up after 5pm in the winter time--it was a struggle to close my car door and I got an extremely cold/wind-chapped face.
two people will interview you with an open file, it's only one interview total, it's not stressful, you're going to have to go outside, so dress appropriately
That the school isn't really in the heart of the city, that we were going to have the interviews before the tour, that you have to have an off campus address to get in-state residency your 2nd year.
There is a nice grocery store and some fast food places right next to the Travelodge in the University District. This hotel was the right choice for a cheapo like me. I got my food from the grocery store. The dental school is a short walk across the street from the Travelodge. No need to rent a taxi. The people at the Travelodge were great. I left something there and they mailed it to me on the honor system if I agreed to send them a check for the postage. Advice for interviewing at any school: find the preclinc lab and talk to the students there.
They interview only 12 people every TH. Which means that they can interview not more than 100 pople starting from Oct. to the 1st of Dec (do the math) for a class of 85. This means that if you have an interview before dec. and resonable stats you should have no problem getting accepted.
Most applicants found the interview process to be friendly and laid-back, with an emphasis on being genuine and confident in expressing one's motivations for pursuing dentistry. Some mentioned specific aspects they liked about the school, such as the cohesive student body and opportunities for fun activities, while a few noted concerns about the location or facilities.
They are very nice. Just brainstorm your answers and be yourself. Make sure you ask questions and show that you are really passionate.
The interview process was great. It might seem intimidating because of the writing sample and case study that go along with the interview, but they weren't really that bad. The writing sample was 10 minutes long and it was an easy question. The case study was with the Director of Admissions, Dr. Brown, and he was very nice. The topic was interesting and something that you couldn't possibly have prepared for, but Dr. Brown gives you a minute to think and walks you through it. You have to think on your feet, but there's really no right or wrong answer. I think he's just trying to gauge your ability to form an opinion on the fly. The actual interview was conducted by a faculty member and two 4th year students on the admissions committee. It was really laid back and comfortable. After I met them, I liked them immediately. It was so relaxed and the interview felt like a breeze. At the end of the interview process, we had lunch with the interviewers which seemed to consist of faculty and upper classmen. It was a good experience and it seemed to go by quickly. We started at 8:30 and we were done by 1:30, but there were only 8 interviewees in my group. They told us we'd hear from them in 1-2 weeks, so I'm basically going to be checking my email 24/7!
Don't be afraid to ask a bunch of questions to current students. They WANT to help you! Don't worry about the writing sample question...just write. Case scenario isn't bad at all, actually had fun with it. Just be able to support your own opinions.
Other interviewees were very sociable and friendly. I had a really good experience here!
Overall I had a great time there, there's plenty of things to do in Buffalo, downtown, eat (WINGS!), sight seeing, and other outdoor activities. Although the tour was quick, I was still able to see students at work and they worked well with one another, helping each other out on some stations. Great school to attend even if you are out of state, you get residency in one year.
Was not really a fan of the case scenario... otherwise, the interview was not as stressful as I'd heard/thought. My interviewers were so nice and friendly!
~13 interviewees. Consists of a writing sample (10 min exactly), traditional interview (25-30 min), case scenario (5-10min)
Sample was ok. They specifically check for your writing skills and not really what the topic is (they said it directly). Traditional interview was one-on-one against 3 people (2 profs, 1 4th year for me). Asked many questions, but were pretty friendly.
Case scenario was interesting and not stressful. Dr. Brown did most of the talking. He is a very nice guy.
Seems like a great school with many opportunities... The students seem pretty happy with their choices and the city doesn't seem as boring as others make it out to be - sounds like they have a lot of fun in Buffalo.
at the beginning u have an easy essay Q, do not worry. dental school is in graduate side and it was dead, I saw only a few students. campus location looks a little depressing.
Amazing school! It becomes one of my top choice schools! Campus is also awesome! I like their curriculum. They focus on smooth transition from year 1 to private practice or specialty programs. Very close from my undergrad institution!
The school is very nice and the education you receive is obviously top notch. Students are extremely close-knit and participate in lots of class events. There are two different interviews: one 10 minute discussion with the dean of admission about an ethical situation in dentistry and one 20 minute interview with a faculty member and 4th year student. Both interviews are extremely laid back and more like a conversation than anything.
Sucked - what can I tell you? They seemed to feel almost bothered to be interviewing, interrupted, didnt smile to save their lives - felt rushed and disposable.
Interview was done by a faculty member (guy) and a 4th year student (girl). She seemed to enjoy making me sweat and he seemed in a rush to finish, would bareley listen to answers to his questions...didnt like the interview OR them. Others had better experiences with other professor-student teams though, so maybe I just got a cranky pair.
I was really nervous - it was my first - but my interviewers really did just want to get to know me. They will talk to you about anything you are open too. You MUST be able to laugh at yourself. Not only did I make a joke that NO ONE laughed at, but I fell over in my heels, almost slid down the handicap ramp, and ran into a bar I thought was a revolving door along the tour. These things happen ^.^
Start with a great video, then a short essay writing. Then interveiws. It was great, the interveiwers were very friendly and paid close attention to everythig I had to say. They were very positive about responding on my good side rather than nitpicking my negatives.
Good, but short. I was a little nervous that most students were taking 30-40 minutes in their interview and mine was only 10-15 minutes. I had the interviewers laughing and smiling so I think it went well, they just didn't ask me any hard questions. (Hopefull thats a good sign).
Questions were pretty standard. Staff was really nice, gave us water, and a good presentation. I got probably the best look at all aspects of this school of any schools I interviewed at.
There were 2 people who interviewed(male and female) me very old and you cant talk to them because they wont talk to you not personable. Would write down every single word that would come out of my mouth both of them. Would not smile or interact with me. Would interrupt me so I would slow down so they can write down word for word what i would say, i thought they should have given me the form with the questions so i would have filled it out myself.
The students all seemed pretty chill and the interview was pretty laid back. However, it was pretty obvious that the interviewers were reading questions off a sheet. Furthermore, as soon as I would start answering a question, all 3 interviewers would suddenly start writing, and that was a bit intimidating at first - felt like I was a school teacher or something - one interviewer even apologized about it. Overall, it was a very good experience and I great school.
I felt like i would be at a disadvantage having a phone interview, but i felt better on that phone interview then my 5 previous interviews at the actual schools. the admissions really read my application, not just as they were interviewing me. and i was accepted in december. the school seems great and is number one on my list.
planes got delayed like crazy, so prepare for that. when i got to buffalo, it was smooth sailing. the best part of the trip was meeting the d students and the other kids getting interviewed. they were awesome. starts off with a video from 1985, then a 10 minute writing sample, then interviews, tour, lunch. great time!
i was nervous but enjoyed it. i didn't feel like it was very formal with the repetition of question and answer. it was conversational, like i said before.
the interview wasn't as laid back as the one i had at Tufts, but it wasn't too bad. i had an older professor and a senior student inverviewing me. the student seemed friendly. the professor looked bored and was talking so fast that i had to ask what his question was twice.he wasnt that bad overall but i was a little intimidated. there werent a whole lot of eye-contact. they were all busy writing down stuff.
I was drilled, almost interrogated, and interrupted twice. I was asked many trap questions. I had 2 interviewers: one was an older doctor and the other was a senior student who was acting a bit authoritative and suspicious of me and my interest in pursuing dentistry. They did not say a single positive comment about my character or application. It was rather stressful and I came out of the interview with a headache. The older interviewer laughed at my answers twice! He also made it seem like every answer I gave was retarded. I have a high GPA and a good DAT score. I have a graduate degree and a couple of publications and I am working on the third. They ignored all of that and focused on the deficiencies of my application. My lack of experience in shadowing a dentist made them suspicious and they lingered on the issue. They also called my non-traditional path to dentistry ââโ¬Åโconvolutedââโ¬Âย as opposed to ââโ¬Åโwell-rounded.ââโ¬Âย All interviewees on that day said that it was laid back, except two other non-traditional students. I believe that there is bias against non-traditional applicants at buffalo. Too bad, such a wonderful school, such a great student body and then I get those interviewers. It was a matter of luck and I simply did not have luck. I wish I was not a fucking non-traditional student. If I was the typical 22 year old guy who just came out of college, they would not have had the chance to question the years I spent before applying to dental school and give me a hard time. It seems that the adcom wants to keep the student body young, white and small-town-rooted.
Was great, I got in, I am very pleased. The entire interview day was organized very professionally and was the best I've experienced thus far. I'm from Canada, so I love the snow, others may not. The interviewers consisted of one faculty member and a 4th year dental student. It was formal and involved many questions from my personal file. I felt it went really well.
5 Stars! This place is for me. Hope to see you there (unless of course you're some arrogant wiener, which they'll pick up on anyway and you won't make it past the screen). Enjoy your interview. The pizza's good but Duff's has better wings (about 10 min from campus).
The school is very good but I just don't like the idea of living next to nothing. They try to hype the fact that Buffalo is close to Toronto. What they then tell you is that Toronto is 2 hours away from Buffalo.
VERY low stress...they really just wanted to get to know me. It concluded with them asking if there were any other questions that they should have asked, and if I thought they had received an adequate impression of me.
The interview was very relaxed. Mostly conversational. The addmissions department is very friendly and helpful. You watch a movie, write a 10 minute essay, and have a 45 minute interview (either 1 on 1 or 2 on 1). There is a lot of downtime where you just sit and chat with actual students and other interviewees. The students say that they don't have any say in your addmissions so you can ask them anything. You get buffalo wings for lunch which was pretty sweet. Bring a jacket b/c buffalo is cold.
The opening introductions and information gave me sort of a neutral impression of a normal dental program. You have to give a sample of your writing and watch a video. The interview wasn't bad, though they offered a few more challenge questions than the others I did. However, when we ended up chatting about classes and Buffalo in general it got VERY casual and they seemed to enjoy just getting to know me. So don't get alarmed at any questions; use them to get back to your good qualities. The library and clinics are AMAZING, and the campus is really quite nice! The students seem relaxed, friendly, and were constantly teasing and swearing at each other ;). It seems laid back but very professional, and you get TONS of clinical experience. They do stress that you'll work 80+ hours a week though.
The interview was with a faculty/admissions member. They made me feel as comfortable as possible while trying to get the information they needed. Very professional. The tour of the school was impressive and the students were very honest with us.
The interview experience was not really stressful. The interviewers made you feel very comfortable. All fo the faculty were extremely nice especially the secretary, Barbara. The clinics are a little out of date compared to some other schools; really nice library which has wireless internet all around.
overall with the school itself i was pleased. seemed to have good facilities, staff and surrounding area. My interview itself was by two doctors that were very professional and personable. I felt the way they asked questions were very well done. They did ask me tough questions like explaining a grade and probing into any answer I had. Though, they werent doing it to be intimidating, they were doing it to just know more and they clearer would tell me that before they would ask anything. That helped me to be less apprehensive and give a more comprehensive answer, but also them asking their question.They were very organized and definitely knew all about me when i came in. I appreciate their demeanor and their treatment of me.
Staff, students, and admin were extremely down to earth & I felt extremely welcome, in contrast, the other applicants were cold & competitive. Had mug shot taken. After a brief video presentation about the school & introductions, we chatted with the students while waiting to be interviewed. Dr. Joynt is extremely friendly--was asked questions listed previously on SDN & questions regarding my application. Also chatted about experience at other dental school interivews. Was lead on tour of library, lecture halls, anatomy lab, clinics & neurology study by really nice. Preclinical labs are in the basement & all dental buildings are linked underground. Clinics are nice--school provides instruments (aka, can not take them when you leave). You get your own operatory during 3rd & 4th year--tiered group practice system. 15,000 patient files, 6,500 patient under active treatment at any time. You take basic science lectures with med students, but dental students get separate exams & labs. Big brother/sister program exists. Received acceptance letter 1 week later. Good Luck!
This school really took my breath away, between the vast high tech facilites, nice faculty, and friendly students, I think buffalo should really be a consideration for every applicant
the school, students, admissions faculty were great and made the school very impressive in my mind...my interview was not so much..i had 2 ppl, one really nice man and another very intimidating lady which made for a very interesting dynamic. i thought my interview went really badly because the lady kept ripping me apart, but i think she just did that to see how you dealt with stress because other ppl who had her thought the same thing..i was accepted 2 days after. if you are yourself and confident you should be fine even tho it may not seem like it at the time...
It overall wasn't a bad or good experience. The students who came and talked to us were overall great! The interview...well...I thought it went absolutely horrible. There were two of them, one was an older lady with an accent and the other a middle aged man. The man was *very* nice, while the woman...jesus...She lit into and constantly questioned, and requestioned everyone of my answers and it really threw me off guard. I think she was testing how well I could handle stress and criticism, but it still made the interview a pretty bad experience. I honestly was pretty bummed until another girl had the same interviewers and had the same impression as I did. But either way, I got accepted 2 days after the interview.
I had the interview on Dec. 2nd and I received my acceptance on the 8th. I think the prime reason for the acceptance was showing great great great interest of the school. I talked about post-graduate biomaterial program and asked lots of question on it. Also, summer research program in the Instrumentation Center. Show that you are really interested in SUNY Buffalo Dentistry! I had no hard questions. Make sure you are the one who does the most of talking. Elaborate on every question you have. Avoid one or two sentence answers.
It was a very relaxing day. We arrived and met in a room and saw a video about the school. Students were taken out one by one for their interview and they were brought back in. We did a campus tour, ate lunch, at that was it! I was accepted less than a week later.
10 minute writing sample is basically only to test your writing skills, has nothing to do with content really - my question was "who was your favorite teacher and why?"
for the actual interview part, it was with two faculty members. i think they have a set list of questions that they were asking of a sheet of paper and were taking notes from our responses. if you look at all the other feedbacks, you will have pretty much all the questions that will be asked. the interview is very relaxed, they won't try to drill you or anything, mainly i think they are just trying to get to know you.
very positive and i really thought the school was great -- better than i imagined. originally i wasn't thinking too seriously about buffalo but they definitely proved themselves to me...i'd be very happy with my education if i attended
I want to recommend to use "travelodge"
--within walking distance from dental school and there are many food shops next to travelodge and you can meet a very gentle and kind manager there. He is really supportative.
It was a very nice experience. All it is, that they really want to get to know you. I met a lot of friendly and smart students and would definately want to go to school with them. The operatories are very well kept and I loved their tier system. It makes you well prepared when you get "out there".
Solid program, but old old facility, and cold area.
That 10 min. writing sample thing, you can't prepare for it. Topic is different for each interview date.
Overall the school impressed me, especially how much everyone seemd to enjoy being there with each other, which is a huge plus since this is going to be your life for four years. It really wasn't stressful at all, they just tell you how it is, and it seemed like the students were giving truthful answers and not blowing smoke. Some students passed up some more well known schools to attend Buffalo - I think that says a lot. The essay was simple - what quality do you possess that will make you an effective dentist?
Overall, the interview went very well. Two days prior, I got an email informing me that they would want us to complete a writing sample in 10 minutes. So, as part of the process, we had to do this writing assignment. Other than that, the interview was great. Buffalo is a great school for the price. All total, when you factor in living expenses, it costs half as much as a private school in a big city (NYU, Tufts, BU, Temple, UPenn). The staff was very friendly and the students really seemed to enjoy it. Some of the students had turned down acceptances at some top schools to come to UB.
This was one of the 2 most organized and serious interviews I sat through. I appreciate that. They had standard questions that they ask everyone. They may also have had a short list of questions that they chose from to ask people. In addition, they had specific questions for me that they had written down beforehand while reviewing my application. The school has a bit of a PR problem: while on the tour at least a couple other students said out loud "Don't go here". Reading SDN, apparently these are not isolated incidents. I wish I could have gotten to the bottom of this to see if it was just some kind of a joke. As an interviewee, it is anything but a joke! I really liked the suburban setting with easy access to the urban beneftis of Buffalo. This is a safe and cheap place to live. If you have extra time, it might be nice to take the free bus to the main campus to check it out. While I was initially put off a bit by the comments of some students, I later came to really appreciate this school. This school is a great value and may be even cheaper than your own state school (if you have one). You can get NY residency in the second year. This school has a great research reputation and good acceptance rate for those wanting to specialize.
it's a good school...the first year and second year facilities aren't the best...but the third and fourth year facilities are great...all students get their own chair
Everyone was very very nice to me. One of the staff came up to me and ask where I am from. We end up have a conversation. The interview wasn't bad at all. The interviewer asked basic questions like: Why Dentistry, do you want to specialize, what are your strengh, etc... Just be yourself and you'll be fine.
It's a quality school. I've known of its reputation for creating great dentists with a good background. Looks like potential for a good social graduate experience among the class with intramurals and events. I think the clinics can get updated, but there OK. I feel the students are satisfied with their education, but not overly enthusiastic whether it's the school or maybe just the location?
I had an idea going into the day but now I am quite certain that UB is a great dental school. The clinics are beautiful, modern and the best part is that you keep the same operatory for 2 years. I really like the research program and the possiblity of graduating with honors in research. The school also has a minors program where students can specialize in an area during their 4th year. The curriculum utilizes a DVD system that has lecture slides, presentations, textbooks, the works. But if you're not happy with reading something on the computer, printing is free for dental students in the medical/dental library (another fine aspect of the school). The cost of living in the Buffalo area is very reasonable and I like the area -- a mix of big city and suburbia.
What are your suggestions for the admissions office?
Applicants commonly suggested improvements in communication and organization by providing more information on logistics, such as directions to the school, parking details, and recommendations for nearby hotels. Some also expressed a desire for more comprehensive tours of the school and its facilities before their interviews.
I wish it had been in person, but the admissions office did a great job in keeping everyone relaxed and interested.
Have all those interviewing sit side by side against a wall while we wait (like NYU's interview) rather than inside a classroom and facing the board. It was so awkward and quiet because of that since we were so far away from each other.
Suggestions for hotels near the school and parking information. Also, how to reach the admission's office. For information regarding inviting parents to the info session, which was really friendly.
Do not stay at the University Manor Inn. I took a risk because it was walking distance to the Dental School but it wasn't worth it. Rooms stunk of cigarettes, the toilet were unflushed when I got there, staff was rude, and generally wasn't a clean facility.
