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Overall, applicants ranked the school in the top 21% of interviews, indicating it is highly regarded. They found the interview generally impressive with a moderate stress level and felt they did okay.
Generally favorable experience overall, applicants reported positive interactions with some minor issues noted.
Based on 400 responses
Score Reference:
9–10 Exceptional8–8.9 Very Good7–7.9 Good6–6.9 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 area’s cultural life as average.
0 = Bad, 10 = Great
How is the responsiveness of the admissions office?
Most respondents said the admissions office was responsive.
💬 Interview Questions ▼
What is one of the specific questions they asked you?
The most commonly asked interview questions at medical schools revolve around the motivation to pursue dentistry, experiences in shadowing and research, academic performance, future goals in dentistry, and preparation for standardized tests like the DAT. Some respondents mentioned being asked about specific dental procedures, their choice of dentistry over other health fields, and where they see themselves professionally in the future. Additionally, references to MMI format and nondisclosure agreements suggest that some interviews were structured in an MMI format with restrictions on discussing specific questions.
Which other schools did you apply to? (In which they made me LIST them after I tried to dodge it)
Why dentistry?
Where do you see dentistry going in the future?
Where do you see yourself in 5-10 years?
What schools did you apply to?
Where else have you interviewed?
Why should we choose you to come here?
How do you fit in with this program?
Why not medicine? Why not any other health field? (The only way to stop this is to either answer that dentistry is a medical speciality or to state a much lower health field--ex/"What should I be, an X-ray tech?"
Why did you take so long to decide to go to dental school? (I graduated college and went to gradschool first, but did not like it, so I left. I didn't think taking 2 years was all that long to decide to dedicate 4 years and hundreds of thousands of dollars to a career).
Students said most interesting questions asked at University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine discussed a range of topics including career aspirations, shadowing experiences, future practice plans, personal hobbies, academic background, ethical dilemmas in dentistry, and views on the healthcare system. The interviews may have been in an MMI format as multiple respondents mentioned nondisclosure agreements, but the questions primarily focused on personal experiences, professional goals, and opinions related to dentistry and healthcare.
What is one bad thing your friends would say about you, and one good thing? They emphasized FRIENDS, not parents/faculty.
How would you contrast what you saw or anything that you learned about the different practices that informed how you might run a practice in the future?
If a person came to you for cosmetic care because they claimed their appearance made them unemployable, is it your responsibility to treat them even if they can't afford it?
I thought one of my interviewers was really out of line, and I am still debating whether or not to report that person to UCONN administration. This person asked me two questions which seemed to be designed for me to just flip my lid and were beyond appropriate questions one should be asked at an interview, and had nothing to do with my application.
If anyone from UCONN dental school is reading this review, I want you to know that students who spend years studying deserve to be respected. You should also hope that I choose not to do anything about your illegal questions.
Why dentistry?
Where do you see dentistry going in the future?
Where do you see yourself in 5-10 years?
What schools did you apply to?
Where else have you interviewed?
Why should we choose you to come here?
How do you fit in with this program?
Tell me about the comic you write for your school's newspaper. (I guess they want to see how each student is different! I didn't even think they'd see that detail in my app ;) )
How was the dentistry in Russia?(i am originally from there)... after my answer, "So, if you were given unlimited amount of resources, what would you put these funds into the most?
Students said most difficult question asked at University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine discussed a wide range of topics including why they applied to multiple schools, details about shadowing experiences, ethical scenarios, and their views on dentistry. The interview format may have been an MMI (Multiple Mini Interview) due to the diverse questions asked, and some respondents mentioned experiencing a good cop/bad cop routine, potentially indicating a nondisclosure agreement in place.
What's one thing on your application that you want to tell us that we haven't mentioned/asked about?
No specific question was that difficult, it was more the good cop/bad cop routine from the two interviewers that could trip you up. One interviewer would ask the easy and fun questions like tell us about this sport you played. The other would ask questions like "So your Women in Science club, do you just knit all day?" He was only joking and being sarcastic really but his questions probed more and it sounded like he was waiting for you to contradict yourself or forget something you wrote in your app. After talking to others who interviewed, I think it's a tactic to see what happens when they try to ruffle your feathers a little bit. But if you're relaxed, it's more of a fun conversation and I actually really enjoyed my interview!
The most difficult question beyond interview questions is whether or not I should try to get that individual fired for asking me innapropriate questions.
In observing your father's dental practice, what do you think is the most difficult part of being a dentist, and what has he found to be the greatest struggle?
Major grilling about my post-graduate experience & why not medicine--you can tell that they did not bother to preview my application. I was an engineering student & had not applied to med school.
Again, few questions were even asked about my drive to become a dentist or my knowledge about the field-I felt the interviewers were unprepared and unprofessional.
What do you do if a patient is suffering from chronic depression from a dental cosmetic issue, but has not money to pay for a procedure how would you handle this?
Because of your previous interest in medicine, what makes you think that you won't change your mind after your first few years in dental school and go to medical school?
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?
Most applicants prepared for the interview by reviewing common questions on SDN, practicing responses, and seeking feedback from current students or alumni. They also researched the school's website, read over their application materials, and engaged in mock interviews to feel more confident and prepared.
I read SDN, looked up common questions, and practiced in the mirror. I know this sounds corny, but if you practice making a pre-prepared response look natural it removes a lot of stress during the interview.
researched the school;
brainstormed; practiced answering anticipated questions; approached with a sincere motivation to see if the school was right for me
There is nothing you can do to prepare for illegal questions at an interiew. If you are someone that received a lot of interviews, then you probably can get away with making a scene and a big deal of illegal questions. If you are someone who didnt get a lot of interviews, you have to decide if you want to ask the school for another interiew, or just roll with the punch.
Applicants were positively impressed by the friendly and supportive environment, small class sizes, pass/fail grading system, high specialization rates, rigorous curriculum, faculty-student interactions, state-of-the-art facilities, integration with medical students, and the emphasis on clinical experience. They also appreciated the emphasis on competency, the location, the reputation, the immersive learning experiences, the focus on research and volunteer opportunities, and the affordability of the program.
One of the interviewers was super sweet and conversational, the other one was chill.
You have a talk with Dr. P at the beginning of the day and she is the sweetest. Plus chatting with the dental students later in the night is a great way to finish off the interview day because it's so chill.
The dean's presentation about the school was really great. I learned so much about UCONN I didn't know previously and it was very helpful. The student chat went well also, they all seemed like best friends which was comforting to know.
P/F grading which eliminates competition, small class size, phenomenal match rates, in-state tuition, and newly renovated facilities, including the advanced dental simulation clinic.
The intense basic science curriculum and the students saying how easy it is for them to pass their boards. Also that in-state tuition is offered to OOS in the second year.
Everything! The students we had lunch with were so friendly, fun and intelligent. Dr. T was so encouraging and friendly. The school is beautiful and really geared to make you the best dentist you can be. I was really excited about the classes being shared with the med students the first two years. I also really liked that the dental class is small. The p/f system really allows everyone to work together and be their personal best.
A lot: The curriculum. I believe they really train competent and intelligent students of the entire body...who specialize in/treat patients as dentists, but definitely understand the greater frameworks around their area of focus (head and mouth). The students were smart and honest and nice. The cafeteria had delicious food. The placement of the Health Center is a bit imposing from the bottom of the hill, but from the top/inside the views are far-reaching and beautiful. The school is very pleasant inside. Many recent updates. Copious windows and warm yellow stone walls make it very comfy and cheery inside. Nice lounges and labs. Dr. T treated us as intelligent adults. At no point did I feel like he was trying to 'sell' or pad up the school. He presented facts and valuable viewpoints/considerations in selecting a school. Interviewers asked reasonable questions and were nice about it when I had difficulty answering some of them.
Everything Dr. T talked about in the orientation (answered all of the questions I had before my interview... :/), brand new sim lab, promise of brand new clinics by our 3rd year, cost, opportunities in research/ huuuuge building project planned.
The curriculum is "extremely demanding" as they will tell you several times and there are a LOT more science courses and clinical hours than most schools, but it sounds like great preparation for the future (90% pass rate on the NBDE!) Everyone was friendly and welcoming and the campus was very nice.
The facilities are GORGEOUS! The hospital is on a hill and is in a lovely location, the faculty and students are so nice - they know everyone, and the school is fairly easy to navigate. The school churns out great dentists.
The food is pretty good :D
Amazing student to faculty ratio 3.3, soooo much money invested in the school for renovations which most will be done by beginning of 2009, very high % of class does international volunteer work.
facilities, dr. thibodeau & his staff, culture, stdents, cafeteria, location, no need for clinic "requirements" but rather competency in the procedures
The facilities (all newly renovated or soon-to-be renovated), the students and faculty, Dr. Thibodeau's presentation, NBDE board scores, PBL, pass/fail
The students seemed to love it there. I loved the small calss size and the fact that everyone seemed to respect eachother as competent students. Everyone seemed to want to support each other, and I think this is partly due to their pass/fail philosophy.
Everyone seemed very upbeat and positive. The students said that the curriculum is demanding, but it is managable....and you can still have a life...(unless if it's two weeks before an exam) :)
The program is one of the best in country. I like the small classes and medical focus. If you want to be a leader in the field, this school is for you. They did a great job of stressing that the school is rigorous, and if you like that sort of thing than this is the school for you. Hey, you dont become number one by taking it easy.
we toured the clinic well before lunch and the place was hopping. there were tons of patients, enough to fill the 3 waiting rooms through which we passed.
the faculty seemed very devoted to excellence, but they were not distanced from the students. almost everyone gets residency after 12 months, when asked about drop-out rates and such numerous people independently of each other said essentially unless you decide to drop out, you will have to actively work very hard to not graduate.
the way the basic medical science courses )or should I say, one extensive course) is set up. Also, low income patients are covered under special state insurance so that most procedures can be completed in the clinics.
Their belief that all graduates should be competant general dentists before they move onto specialties (other schools push you right into a specialty early on)
The location of the school is great. It's very safe and beautiful. Others say that there's nothing to do there, but I drove for about 10 minutes and found myself in beautiful downtown Hartford. It was aroud 4:00 in the afternoon, so I didn't go around looking for clubs and bars and stuff, but I'm sure there's a reasonable amount of things to do if you're only a few minutes from downtown. Also, I found out there were some sweet mountain biking trails behind the school. The curriculum seems very well balanced. Strong academics, but sufficient clinical emphasis also.
I really like what UConn has to offer. Great academics, volunteering and research opportunities. Students say they do not have trouble getting patients despite the fact that it is in a nice neighborhood. Pass/Fail
The curriculum is theme based rather than seprated out into specific courses. Although dental students are co-taught with med students, they are supplemented with dental-specific material in the afternoons. I was also impressed with their problem based learning approach and very small class size. The student tour guides were friendly and knowledgable.
The small class size, high board scores, good school to specialize. Also, the pass/fail system, no GPA...early clinical experiences as well. I was really impressed with the program.
Best education at a lower cost.
Their curriculum stressing both didactics and clinics. Nice faculty members. Nice building. Small class size. Nice food at their cafeteria (not expensive at all.)
The school's curriculum, faculty and facility. They make you feel that if you graduate from here, you will be the leading and top dentist of your time. Everyone was really nice and helpful. The small student to faculty ratio.
The health center facility is gorgeous, and Connecticut funds UConn with huge amounts of money, which they use to upgrade their facilities and fund research (CA is in a state deficit, lots of budget cuts at UCLA and UCSF)
The interview was very organized. The students I met were all very nice. Dr. Thibidoue was very informative not just with UCONN but on choosing the right Dental School.
the way that Dr. Thibodeau thoroughly explained the coarse load and methods of learning. they left no question unanswered. there is also a high percentage of students passing on the boards.
More time for research in the summer than in other schools i visited - the break is not 4 weeks long!; cheap; the curriculum(themes) is very appealing to my way of learning, and the environment very apt to my way of studying as well; Problem-based learning courses; friendliness and sincerity of people, small class(plus for me) and yet located in a big building that makes it open and free-like. nice clinics
Dr. Thibodeau was really friendly and helpful. The students who gave the tour were also helpful, and answered most of our questions.
The dental school is really nice in terms of facilities / availability of patients.
I was also impressed with their program.
Applicants were commonly unimpressed by the lack of warmth and professionalism during interviews, feeling unengaged and unenthusiastic about the school. They also noted concerns about outdated facilities, the stress level of students, and the emphasis on board scores rather than a more comprehensive view of the program. Suggestions included improving interview experiences, updating facilities, and showcasing a more holistic view of the school beyond academic achievements.
The interview was great - I don't have any bad things to say about the faculty or interview. It was super chill and conversational. However, I did not like the orientation. To be completely honest, the culture at UConn seems so intense, reflective of their intense curriculum. The admissions lady cold calls you throughout the 2-hour-long presentation, so you have to be listening and attentive to make sure you answer well if you get called. I personally like a more chill interview/orientation vibe because I feel like the point of an orientation is to understand what the school is like, not to be quizzed throughout. Like, I get they want to make us involved throughout the orientation online, but I didn't like that. Be prepared for that and make sure you watch the videos and have questions prepared.
I had two pretty terrible interviewers. One of them kept his head in his hands the whole time. He kept sighing and rubbing his face and head as if I was boring him. It felt like I was wasting his time. The interview was not very conversational at all, it almost felt like I had to pull the next thought out of them to keep the conversation going and it was very dry. The mere fact that they were even allowed to interview candidates is somewhat surprising considering how unprofessional they were.
Admissions staff came off as a little cocky during the presentation in the morning for example, when discussing their match statistics for prior years classes.
The orientation was very long and we were cold called by name to answer them. Virtual connection increased the awkwardness of it all. In future years, if in person interviews are safe, I'd do that!
I had an incredible day touring up until the interview. The bad cop/good cop kind of discouraged me and left me with a bad feeling afterwards. Still got accepted though :), so the anxiety was all for naught.
Farmington is a small town, smaller than I am used to; however, it is not too far from Boston or New York. Also, the interview seemed to be conducted in a good cop/bad cop manner in which one of the interviewers seemed very friendly while the other one was pretty stoic. I don't know if that was on purpose.
I would never go to UCONN dental school based on how I was received at my interview. If you have the choice, interview at another school and dont waste your money.
not much. I think that the school is great Dr. T is cool and very helpful, despite the negative remarks I saw on the site. He makes you feel at home, and lets you know that if you got an interview, "Its not a matter of getting into school, but which school."
the clinic seemed old and dungy. low celings, boring walls, oddly placed lockers. i can also see how people would get the notion that the peolpe here are operate on the assumption that they are better than other schools. i however got no such impression. it seemed to me like they demand alot, but are willing to do all it takes to help you accomplish and achieve it. this is my idea of a good, strong education system. others may disagree.
The facilities - rooms have no windows and all fluorescent lighting. Somewhat of a stressful and depressing atmosphere. The preclin labs seemed great though!
Dr. Thibodeau is not as welcoming or dynamic as you would like, however he will be upfront with you about whatever you want to know, so I guess that's not really a negative afterall. Everyone seems really tired, but I guess that just says that you have to work hard to do well there which also isn't really a bad thing.
Intense & hostile interview. Poor listening skills & major arrogance. If these people are indeed faculty members & dental student advisors--RUN!!! They were extremely proud of their "Extremely Demanding Curriculum" yet they seemed concerned that they are unable to topple Harvard as the top dental school academically. Poor looking clinics compared to other schools--most clinical rotations are with residents, pediatric dentistry is done offsite. This school is not very diverse.
My interviewer basically told me that he didn't think I wanted to attend UConn. He said I should go somewhere that they will teach me handskills and how to make money. I left my interview KNOWING I would not attend UConn.
The clinics were dimly lit, and empty (lunch hour). It would have been nice to have seen the clinic in action. However, the most negative aspect I found was the interview. I felt the interviewers asked me no pertinent questions as to why I was trying to pursue a dental career, and instead focused on my father (who is a dentist), which I felt told them nothing about me, and was borderline harrassment.
The students were unenthusiastic and not really helpful when showing us around...but they were still nice, don't get me wrong. Perhaps, they should have picked a more motivated group of individuals. Also, the EMPTY clinics....i guess they said it was lunchtime. The somewhat isolated location of the health center, although students and faculty said they have no problem getting enough patients.
lack of a strong patient base (the dental school is within the UConn health center which sits atop a hill in the middle of Farmington, which is in the middle of NOWHERE)
There were definitely people waiting for dental services, but when we toured there was no one in the clinic, or the teaching laboratories. The tour guide said it was because everyone was at lunch, but it still struck me as odd.
The day was scheduled very poorly. We heard about the curriculum for 3 hours, had to eat in 5 mins, and then I was one of the last people interviewed and had to sit for an hour and a half with nothing to do.
The school is also in the middle of nowhere, but the scenery is great if you like the outdoors.
It is in the MIDDLE OF NOWHERE. How they emphasize their results on the board as the only measure of how good they are as a school. It is not a very outstanding school except for this reason alone.
interviewers didn't seem very friendly. the student who toured us was kinda arrogant. still seems like a competitve environment even though curriculum is pass/no pass
I guess I can say the cold weather, but I actually thought it was bearable (this coming from someone who lived in CA all his life). Most of the time you're inside their nice facilities anyways
My interviewer did not even look at my file until I arrived. She also was part of the Med school and didn't even know a think about dentistry. She wasn't able to answer any questions about the Dental School except to say it is a very good program. Clinics were dark and cold. Building was impressive looking like Ceasar's Place, but confusing. Did not like the emphasis on how demanding the curriculum is...wherever you go Dental School is demanding and if your not ready for it you shouln't be applying. Also, community looked quiet and dead.
The people there seemed a little pompous. I also didnt like that there were 2 interviewers becuase in my case on of them was very nice while the other was a complete dick
i thought that the interview and presentation of the school was a tad bit too slanted towards the excellence of board scores. after the fiftieth reference to their greatness, i started to fidget in my chair. also, i thoght that the lecture halls were dingy,and the clinics were a little bit claustrophobic and not so well lit. the whole facility looks like a stadium disguised with a high school interior (and a few nice hallways here and there)
the campus is in the middle of nowhere - you can't walk anywhere off campus and Hartford really isn't too exciting (one student actually told me that if you want to have fun, don't come here); I was also negatively impressed the stress level of students - I have seen a bunch of schools and the students just looked really unhappy at UConn; I was also negatively impressed with the pre-clinical labs (I'd heard that they had top-of-the line facilities, and I definitely have seen much nicer facilities than the ones I saw at UConn).
The tour was short and the highlight was the fact that Mike Tyson had sold his house down the street to Fifty Cent. The entire day was spent discussing their curriculum and how great it was. When I asked about other opportunities outside the classroom, there wasn't much to be said, as my question was basically blown off. The clinics are outdated and the school isn't as up-to-date with technology as one would assume a state school to be. The arrangement of the day gave us 10 minutes to eat lunch and "ask questions" with the students (of which the usual answer was, "We're the best because of our boards scores."). At the interview they asked us to fill out a paper saying whether or not we would need special accommodations for testing (i.e. if we had a learning disability). I thought that this was a ridiculous request seeing that we hadn't even been accepted to the school -- they don't need that information. During the interview, I asked the interviewers about how the DMD/Ph. D. program worked and they refused to answer my question, saying that it was unnecessary to answer unless I had a "documented interest" in the area, of which they saw none. So this question, with many from the day, went unanswered.
Applicants commonly wished they had known ahead of time about the conversational and relaxed nature of the interview, as well as the potential for good cop/bad cop scenarios. Suggestions included being prepared for stand-offish interviewers, timing of virtual interviews, and the lengthy orientation session. It was also noted that in-state residency can be claimed after the first year, and to be aware of the remote location and lack of nearby amenities.
I wish I had known how intense the culture seems and how much UConn is specifically aimed towards people who want to specialize. If you want to be a general dentist, it does not seem like the right school for you. Yes, you might be saving some money at UConn, but in the long run, you are not saving money if you want to practice general dentistry because you then have to pay for another year to do a GPR or AEGD which will offset whatever you saved.
You cannot log on until your interviewers are on (for virtual). I panicked thinking the link was broken and called the office for help and ended up looking silly.
A high percentage of people interviewed end up getting offers. This is not to say that you are a lock when you get your interview notice, but it should give you some confidence
Nothing specific about the interview itself but I didn't know that you can claim in-state residency after the first year! Made me realize how much more affordable the school would be (I'm OOS)
GOOD COP/ BAD COP. If you're not particularly stunning at interviews (like me), prepare for this. Don't let the negative comments deter your answer to the questions. Keep your convictions and you should be good.
I discovered that I have a high threshold for illegal interview questions and I was able to keep my cool. I discovered that DDS/DMD professors that get stuck making minimal pay in academics while their counterparts in private practice make lots of money, have a stick up their ass and will take out their frustration on people who come to interview.
i did quite a bit of research, so i was pretty prepared. my interview was, however, very professional but not in a way to back me into a corner (as i've read they've been for other students). i went in feeling very stressed, and i walked out wondering why my experience was so different from others'.
That they are a great school, but seem to have some sort of inferiority complex. They try to mimic other schools and put the students in class for TONS of hours...just doesn't seem necessary.
There is nothing in the area. I arrived to get grounded in my surroundings the night before. The Dunkin Doughnuts across the street from the entrance of the school was closed at 8PM on a Sunday night!? There is no place to grab a quick bite--no Wendy's or McDonalds, only a pizza place where all of the local high school jocks hang out. The dental school only comprises 5% of the facility--which is in a hospital/medical school.
Dr. Thibodeau mentioned about 20x that the curriculum is "extremely demanding". Over and over and over again.. felt it was overkill. But maybe it really is that tough at UConn.
Be prepared for a fairly rigorous interview. The interviewers, although nice, were very serious. The questions were straitforward, but be prepared to explain exactly why you applied to Uconn.
It was not nearly as stressfull as I would have imagined. Dr. Thibideau was extremely nice, and very honest about the school and the admissions process.
That you need a car to get around, the area is very dull, and their facilities are not the best even though they said that they have received a huge grant from the government.
How horribly they prepare you clinically. You get to assist once or twice durring your 1st and 2nd year. The students even hate it. All students that I talked to were planning on specialising in Ortho.
I'd know morea about the current Dental/Medical events. Insurance cases and general State legislature passings. They really interview you even when you think they aren't
that the school is in the middle of no where. for a new yorker like myself, i think that the lack fo things to do would quickly drive a person in need of a mental break from the grueling curriculum crazy in a hurry.
The informative session regarding legistics takes up your whole morning before lunch. I would have gotten more sleep because althought it was very helpful, it was hard to sit for that long.
Because of the boards scores, the students and faculty alike were quite full of themselves and made this fact very clear. The answer to many of my questions was, "Well, we're the #1 school for boards scores." This made me think that there wasn't much else going for them. Also, pediatrics clinics are off-site.
I had heard from others that the interview process at UConn was terrible, so I was very nervous. The interview itself wasnt bad at all, so my nervousness was for naught. I don't know though...some other interviewers may be tougher judging by what friends have said.
Applicants generally provided positive feedback about UCONN's curriculum, facilities, faculty, and opportunities for specialization, but some expressed concerns about interviewers' attitudes and the demanding nature of the program. Suggestions included being well-prepared for the interview, remaining confident in responses, and being honest about weaknesses in the application.
Seems like a great school for those who are set on specializing!
My interview was horrible! The interviewer blamed me for something in my application that was clearly there error. I still sent a thank you and an apology and no one responded. UCONN definitely going a few spaces down on my list. Doing this process is hard enough there’s no need to be rude.
Seems like a really great program. Love the way the curriculum is set up, especially as someone who is interested in OMFS (lines up well with the CBSE). I probably got a couple bad egg interviewers but it does leave a sour taste in your mouth regardless. I just hope those faculty members don't represent the majority of faculty at UCONN. I can't imagine they'd be great student mentors....
Fantastic school that will provide you with any opportunity you want to pursue within dentistry. Whether that is general dentistry, specializing, or going into research/academia, UConn has the resources to help you be successful in any path.
Overall, this is an amazing school with extremely nice facilities and a high rate of acceptance into residency programs. The interview is very simple with typical questions and a conversational atmosphere
Was my #1 choice going in to the application process. The orientation and tour with students confirmed it for me.
I'm going to stray from the cliche "relax and be yourself"... obviously be honest with your answers, and don't change them to fit what you think *they* would like to hear. Prepare for it. Make sure you are comfortable answering questions in the field and responding to adverse or negative comments. The main purpose is to see if you can remain calm, coherent, and concise with your answers under pressure. You're only one step away from getting in, good luck! :)
Talk to the other students in the room - if you're friendly with them, it makes the whole day much easier and more bearable. Also wear comfortable shoes.
Make sure you know your application COLD - I made a fool of myself by referencing something that wasn't on my transcript but was on my application, and they corrected me.
Great setting for those who like peace and quiet. Still, not far away from major cities. Top-notch, caring faculty. Happy students. There's a reason why UCONN does so well on boards. Their curriculum is extremely demanding, but effective. I knew I made the right decision by applying here. I knew I would not regret spending the next 4 or more years at UCONN.
i came in expecting a more rural, pretty location, and the ugly building surrounded by parking lots threw me for a loop. everyone drives to school even though they live across the street. that being said, the education is pretty great and very affordable.
If you want the challenge of an extra demanding curriculum, Love human physiology and want to on the edge of 21-century dentistry,That IS a TOP choice school!
This was my second interview after being waitlisted, where the admission committee gave CT residence a second opportunity for an interview. The first interview led to a mis-communication about my past activities in relation to dentistry; mainly because I didn't know they knew so much about me. However, the second interview I prepared well in advance with mock interviews with my dentist (who I had been shadowing), and I was able to explain everything about my application well. Unlike my first interview, I was not at all nervous; mainly because I prepared well for the second time.
I think I summarized my interview previously. I had two people interviewing me, one was just sitting there while the other one asked me questions. It seemed that one of them was attempting to make me flip out by asking me two illegal questions. Right now I am trying to decide whether to go after this person for these questions. I feel as if I wasted one thousand dollars by going out there for the interview.
Im sure that UCONN staff reads these reviews. Learn to respect students, the money they spend to travel to your school, and the efforts they have made to attain high scores. Show them respect during your interview.
I think it was alright. The interviewers were very stone-faced and won't give you any inkling as to whether they like your answers or not. The only advice I can give is to go in confident and have explanations for any weaknesses on your application. Don't second guess any of your answers. I have a feeling they were trying to get me to second guess myself at one point, but hold true.
Dr. T was extremely thorough. It was by far the most informative interview I attended. I was very impressed with what I learned about the curriculem: integrative approach to classes, classes with med students, great board scores, high specialty match, very small classrooms, a 6 to 1 faculty-student ratio
It is a real nice school with a really strong track record. The curriculum is a bit more tough than other schools but it makes the boards seem like a joke. The interview was pretty relaxed. I had a sort of good cop/ bad cop pair of interviewers (I think everyone does). Just remain calm and be prepared to be able to backup everything you say. They know your file well so make sure you do too.
Overall, it was a very positive experience. From what I had read here on SDN, I expected a very difficult and confrontational interview. Thankfully, my interviewers seemed pretty upbeat in their questioning. I can actually say that I enjoyed my UConn interview.
I am from cali, so school totally lacked in cultural and social aspects. IF you are from cali, forget about finding diversity. However, that does not mean the school sucks. If you want to go into specialty, this school will get you there.
The two interviewers seemed kind of soft spoken... I felt like I was talking over them. They asked pretty specific questions from the application, but I felt like I was being very vague in return. But they were very nice, kind and respectful people. The students were also very nice, they seemed kind of inhibited at first. But at lunch they became more talkative.
Well, was congratulated about how I managed to get an interview at UConn. They plan to interview at most 160-180 applicants for 45 seats and will send 90 offers of admission for the coming cycle. Dr. T told us that we were some of the top applicants the country has to offer and should have no problem getting into a school as it is a matter of WHERE we will attend and not IF we can get in anywhere. The interview at UConn acts to determine whether a candidate is a good fit for their program as if there were reasons to reject us, we would not be there interviewing. Oh yeah, extremely demanding curriculum and love of human biology is necessary for success at UConn. The interview itself was pretty laid back and we got over the issues with my app immediately. Although at times the interviewers bickered with each other following my responses. So no matter what, one of the interviewers would support my statements which I found reassuring. Was told I might've gotten into the medical program when my GPA was mentioned.
In the interview, it was as if they were trying very, very hard to make sure that they appeared the opposite of themselves. Although every one tries to put his best foot forward when making a first impression, this school's shoe is dolled up. When trying to hard to appear great, you can generally tell that someone is trying to hide something.
At lunch, I over heard some dental students mention meeting at the nearby club (Scarlet's). In the evening, I went there for a few drinks and spoke to a lot of students. They told me that if they knew what this school was like before they came here, they would have chosen a different school, no matter the cost. Several of them kept looking over their shoulders while telling me this--as if they were afraid they would get caught. I mentioned that to them and they said that they always had to be on the look out. I also met two dentists who were residents. Those guys had gone there for dentistry and now wer going for residency there. Even they were hesitant to speak out. They told me that it wasn't just that they had to study till the wee hours. They mention how the professors treat students. They said that was worse than the studying.
great place. don't go here if you're not willing to get your butt kicked for 2 years. it seems like you'll bennefit grately from it if you can, however. my general impression is that the clinical years here are not as difficult as the academic, but i doubt they are defficient clinically. the actual walls are just old.
The interview itself was REALLY fun and relaxed, mostly because one of my interviewers was a cheerful, happy woman. (Usually UConn has neutral, stone-faced interviewers, but don't let that intimidate you!). They surprisingly asked about specific activities I'd done, like my music, my comic, being an EMT, etc., and didn't barrage me with academic or dentistry questions. So in that sense, it was more summarizing what I did. They asked me general questions about dentistry, but I didn't feel interrogated or anything. The room was HOT though, and it's different to have to talk to TWO people. But it's pretty short and relatively painless. Don't be afraid if they don't accept an answer - sometimes they keep asking until they like what they hear!
About the school: it might be a little depressing-looking and feel like a hotel (it shared a building with a hospital), but they prepare GREAT dentists. It's a stressful and rigorous ride, but the students seem to be some of the best-prepared in the nation. They have a good balance of clinical and academia. I just don't know if I personally like the environment.
I really had a great time. It was my first interview, but I really enjoyed the facilities and the personal attention. It was obvious that the students worked very hard despite the fact that classes are P/F, and the technology, services, and attention were phenomenal. All students do well on their boards, lots of research is availabe for specialities, and I liked the PBL learning style.
Unlike previous comments, we were taken to the clinics in the morning and they were packed - no lack of patients at all. Also, Dr. T was very welcoming although clear about the type of student UCONN is looking for. The students there seemed happy, but all warned that first year is very difficult. But its P/F so it takes out a lot of competition. Once a week they have a 4 hour PBL (problem based learning) session, which works for some and not others. The interviewers were not the friendliest people in the world, but they were very nice. Overall I was impressed and it moved from low on my list to high.
It was a good experience overall. They will not sugar coat things at all, but you don't really want to be tricked into going somewhere, I suppose. So you learn everything you need to know about the school. I like UConn. I think they are looking for a very specific kind of student, and those kinds of students really love it and thrive there. You just have to be what they're looking for. You have to interview there to find out what I'm talking about. A lot of the rumors I had heard from crybabies on this website were put to rest when I went there. They were very well prepared, and had read through my application thoroughly, but they were not interrogatory or beligerant. They just want to make sure you are not a slacker and take it seriously. If you're prepared it won't be stressfull.
Long story short: UConn is a great school, if you're from connecticut or rhode island. Huge hospital in the middle of nowhere, absolutely nothing to do around there, dental school facilities are not much to look at, clinics were dead when I saw them. I met quite a few students, none of which really impressed me. In particular, I felt like there was this kind of "I'm from Connecticut" thing going on with the students & some of the interviewees, and I felt extremely excluded. Also, a lot of the male students seemed very unfriendly, and not the sort of people i'd want to hang-out with. They reminded me of high school students. Board scores might be good, but don't think it translated into stellar overall class specialty match percentages. One thing that impressed me was the interview. It was very serious, and they were one of a handful of schools that actually asked me about my research. Also asked intelligent questions like "how come you didn't ask for a letter of rec. from this prof. you worked for?" Impressed me a bit. I like the small class size, but overall UConn is a thumbsdown for me. It's in the middle of nowhere, the hospital is very impersonal and the dental school isn't well defined, students are unimpressive, and I never saw one person in their clinic. If I went there, i think i would probably kill myself. I would rather not be a dentist at all than go there.
The day started out well with a 3 hour presentation by Dr. Thibodeau--who is extremely nice about the school, the financial aid, the usual. Lunch was 5 min in the extremely crowded cafeteria at its peak time, students are nice, but tired looking. Claimed that the Pass/Fail system was initially stressful, but they finally adapted so that they can sleep. Willing to answer direct questions. Interviewers were both awful, Dr.Russelmonde (guy) playing good cop & Dr. Hagj playing evil cop. Became evident that both had not gone over my application previously, because were asking stupid questions regarding the order I took my classes (I had taken some social science and A&P classes at a local community school after graduation), were extremely poor listeners (I had to repeat it 5-6 times that I was taking Orgo Lab, not the lecture after they looked extremely confused), and were arrogant. The only time I noticed that they were listening was when they asked what schools I had interviews to--& they were furiously scribbling this down. Was chewed out when I asked if there was an honor code & ethics enforcement in this school. I did not see it listed anywhere & I like to see it in all of the schools I apply to. They assumed that I had cheated my way through school & was intending to do that there. Wanted to know what motivated me to go into dentistry instead of other heath fields & would not accept any answer I gave them. Insisted I had no skills listed in my personal statement from my extensive work experience (GRRRR!!). Would not recommend this school unless you are an extreme masochist. I can't believe that these interviewers are also your professors. They must have been such extremely poor dentists to seek employment elsewhere--no wonder, poor people skills. Good
Luck!
Great school! Will be a lot of work taking both the medical school classes and dental school classes. Small class size, inexpensive compared to other schools.
uconn is one of the best dental schools in the country. if you want to go into general dentistry and open up your own private practice...go to BU...
the uconn students had a HUGE complex about being second fiddle to harvard and that negativity permeated everything all the students said.
to the person who posted right before me (dec. 9th), they wouldn't accept an answer to "why not medicine" because if you had looked at the name of the school you'd realize that dental medicine is a branch of medicine. then, you would have been able to asnwer the question fairly easily...
The morning discussion by Dr. Thibodeau (assistant dean of admissions)was incredibly informative, yet relaxing. During our curriculum discussion, we went into a mock PBL (problem based learning) approach, which really opened my eyes as to how UCONN teaches their dental students. Dr. Thibodeau underlined that the school you choose should be the right fit, whether that means UCONN or not. He even offered to give help and advice to anyone having questions about the right program (again, whether UCONN or elsewhere). The student led tour was good, as the students were willing to answer all questions, and even share their experiences with us (positive and negative). It would have been nice to have been able to have eaten over a longer time period, but they are trying to pack a great deal into one day. In general, I was impressed by UCONN. I truly didn't think I would be, as I had heard that their students were not as clinically prepared as others. But they go through all possible elective rotations, must challenge for competency for each procedure, and average 3rd on the National Boards part 2 (as well as part 1, if you're wondering). Being a Connecticut resident, I know the area, and therefore was used to the fact that it is in a suburban location, and that a car is almost necessary (public transportation is not frequent). Up until the interview, I was quite excited about the possibility of coming to the school. However, after such an interview where I felt they were more concerned with my father (the dentist) rather than myself, I have begun to reconsider whether I would attend this school. Perhaps that is rash, as I had a good experience up until that point. Dr. Thibodeau was also nice enough to extend his services if anything went awry in the interview. After emailing him I may change my mind. I apologize as the rest of this will seem like a mild Dennis Miller rant.
Overall it was nice...Uconn is now one of my top choices. The small class size and "extremely demanding" curriculum will definately ensure a good dental education to anyone who is willing to go through it. The interview itself is not exactly stressful, but not a blow-off either. THe ask ALOT of questions...trust me, you'll be talking the WHOLE time, so be prepared for anything.
Be ready for an exceedingly long lecture on the "extremely demanding curriculum" at UConn. Also be prepared to hear all about the performance of their students on the national boards. These are Uconn's two top selling points, which they will make sure you know by the time you leave. However, the overall interview experience was enjoyable. The students were generally friendly (albeit a bit competitive), and the dean, Dr. Thibodeau, gave a thorough explanation of the program.
Great school if you want a solid medical background or if you want to specialize. Small class is a bonus, but they are definitely more focussed on accademics than clinical training.
The faculty and students I met were very nice. However, I thought the day was run very poorly in terms of the timing of everything. Also, the students who led the tour only showed us an empty clinic... perhaps b/c they don't get enough patients? (I don't know if this is true or not but I'm not sure why they only showed us an empty clinic!)
Dr. Thibadaeu's overview of the curriculum/school was very thorough and informative. He was a good educator, too. He wanted us to make an informed decision, and he was willing to help us in choosing the right program for us, even when we decide not to go to U Conn.
He stressed that the program is "EXTREMELY DEMANDING." Interview was not stressful. As Dr. Thibadeau says, they try to find reasons to accept us, not to reject us. Interviewers were EXTREMELY NICE. They asked a lot of questions, but not too hard ones.
My interview experience was pretty good. My interviewers were very nice and made me feel relaxed. Some questions were a little difficult but nothing i couldnt handle
Interview was the most intense out of all other interviews I've had. they did ask what other schools I applied to, which I did not really see the why they needed that info.
Overall, I was glad I made the trip. The interview made me go there more than before. Even though some said that they had horrible time there, it wasn't bad at all for me. Well, they let you make talk a lot and ask many questions.
My UConn visit was very positive, UConn impressed me a lot. Factoring out the location, their board scores, reputation, and success in sending students off to specialize is very impressive. The faculty is also VERY nice, and they tell you straight up that the interview is supposed to be a way for them to represent you, not to judge you. Basically, they're looking for reasons to confirm that you should be accepted, not reasons why they're too good for you or reasons why they shouldn't accept you.
Overall the faculty and students were nice. They do take a different approach with basic sciences combined with Med on a Pass/Fail basis. I got the feeling that the students were overworked and tired. That probably during there 1st 2 years they were miserable and know in the later they are happy for experience they have learned. Community is in beautiful quiet suburbia. Students made reference to not too much excitement in the area.
Look if you took the top 40 students at any dental school their board scores would be just as good or better than UConns. By having a small class size you're just eliminating the poor students that pull most dental school scores down. They have very poor clinical requirements that many dental schools are noticing. You must pass off a single procedure in each case. I would have never interviewed at this school had I known what it was like. I've talked with other schools since UConn's interview and they have been dissatisfied with how clinnically capable UConns students are. I will not attend this crappy school! I would rather apply next year!
i thought that although the school has a great reputation and being #2 in the country, it focuses a little bit excessively on its board scores, and nothing else. the reuirements are very individual based, which some may like, and others may hate. i only had one interviewer, but that was only by accident since one of them had to step out, and most of the time the interviewer tried to get me to say that i would rather go to stony brook university, and prodded me to defend my interest in the school as specifically compared to stony brook, which i think is unfair. i have applied to other schools because i am interested in them, and the interviewers at conn can't expect students to have only one school on their mind.
The day was by far the most informative day of any other interviews i went on to. I have found the information very useful, not necessarily in regards to UConn itself. Dr. Thibodeau was very sincere and understanding, motivating. Students were nice, and i did not find the rumor of UConn bragging about their board results - rather I saw it in other schools too, and to me it was just a fact that was not stressed as others have felt. Overall, I left satisfied with everything i learned.
I liked the school and felt that their program really prepares you to be a great dentist since they focus on the "whole patient." I was happy to visit the school, and felt that my experience was worth the trip.
This was definitely the most intense interview I have had. I felt that the interviewers didn't really get to know me because they seemed to be purposely trying to make me uncomfortable. The unfriendly attitude towards me made me not as friendly back, which I don't think is a way to interview someone. They also asked a lot of questions about the other schools I was applying to, which I didn't appreciate. They should just interview me for UConn and not make any judgement based on the other schools I'm applying to.
UConn is awesome. Beautiful location, everyone is really positive, strong academic program evidenced by the test scores. Dr. Thibodeau makes you feel really good about getting to that point in the admissions process and backs it up with the numbers.
All in all, I do recognize that U Conn has a reputation for great boards scores but I've now realized that this is basically all they have going for them. The people are snooty because of this reputation and I didn't leave the entire process with a feeling that I would enjoy voluntarily spending 4 years of my life here.
it was a very different experience. the interview was a little hard and they jsut asked question after question. i think that the orientation given by the assistant dean was the most valuble.
What are your suggestions for the admissions office?
Applicants commonly suggested re-evaluating interviewers, considering in-person interviews for facility viewings, providing digital information packages, and improving transportation guidance, while also commending the office's organization and helpfulness.
Re-evaluate who your interviewers are. Not sure if my interviewers were just tired from a long day of talking to candidates but maybe break up the interview times so its easier on them and they aren't tired or bitter. Also, go back to in-person interviews, that way candidates can see the facilities.
Include bus directions or a link to bus directions in the interview email. The 66 or the 66T bus goes from downtown Hartford to the front door of the Health Center and Dental School. Schedules on CTTransit website.
