There are few times in our life when we face a good problem. Making a decision when you have multiple admits for dds is one of them. What do you do next?
We have compiled a list of factors you should consider before deciding. Not all questions mentioned below would suit everyone. This is a thought-through guide to help each applicant scour through and make their applicants a unique list. It’s highly recommended you reach out to current students and alums from the respective schools and compare all the responses to the prompts mentioned below before you finalize your choice.
JOBS AFTER THE DDS DEGREE PROGRAM
What percentage of the graduating class gets a job before graduation?
What is the average pay from the first job? How does it increase over the first couple of years?
Do you look for jobs during the last semester or even a year before graduation?
Which states are jobs more commonly available to your graduates?
Which are the standard dental organizations/corporates that employ graduates?
Do you know of students who graduate from the program, try to get jobs, are unable, and return to their home country?
POST-PROGRAM OPTIONS
What additional clinical training must you undergo after graduating and before practicing in a job setup?
What percentage of students from the class go on to do a residency?
Apart from clinical practice and residency, what other employment options are available for students?
How strong is the alum network? How does the school help with connecting with alums?
PROGRAM-SPECIFIC QUESTIONS
In how many installments can you pay the tuition?
Can you do part-time jobs during the course?
Opportunities to have contacts with other traditional dental students who are not in the international program?
How many months of actual clinical experience working on patients do we get in school?
How different is the cost of living while staying close to the school vs. away from the school?
How many students own a car?
What is it likely socially? Did you have good friends within the program?
When did you start looking for housing? Did the school help, or what was that process?
Do I need to be there to look for housing, or do most students find a place and enter a lease over the phone/online?
Based on your experience as a former/current international student, are you happy with your choice or have any regrets
FINALLY, A QUICK COMPARISON GUIDE
Clinical Exposure – patients, procedures (number, types)
Length of the program – the shorter program is better because you start earning earlier.
Climate – you will be staying in that place for at least two years
Family living nearby – dental school can be challenging, and family/friends can be a sound support system.
Job Prospects – it’s generally the same across all programs, but not a bad idea to confirm
Rank/ Reputation – It may not matter during the job hunt, but it might give you an edge if you plan on doing a residency.
Research Reputation – if you are interested in pursuing research.
Campus – safe or not; culture
Total expenses – especially if you are taking out a loan.
Will I need a car? – this will be an additional expense
Which school makes you happy? – if you visited both schools for your interview, where did you like the students more or see yourself fitting in better
What does your heart want? – this is at the end of the list, but the most important to consider
I hope you can decide and will be fully satisfied with it. Good luck with the next phase of your life!
Dr. Nikita
Clinical Director – Caapid Simplified
