Presentation Category
Other
Introduction/Context/Diagnosis
As a person decides on making a commitment to a career, especially one that requires as much time and money as dentistry, it is important that one is able to experience the field prior to devoting themselves. This presentation shares the design and outcomes of a new program, the Pre-Dental Boot Camp (PDB), at a private dental school. The goals of the program are two-fold: (1) to teach pre-dental students foundational concepts in dentistry while offering hands-on experience in the lab; and (2) to provide opportunities for networking with mentors and potential future colleagues.
Methods/Treatment Plan
The PDB program, offered from February through June 2018, was facilitated by 18 DDS students. It consisted of 19 lectures and 7 sessions in the simulation lab. Students who attended all sessions were eligible to participate in a “bonus day” during which they participated in a mock interview. At the end of each session, we sent out a survey that asked students for feedback on the day’s session. At the end of the program, a survey was administered to collect data on students’ overall impression of the program.
Results/Outcome
All available spots (n=54) were filled in less than 48 hours. Another 35 students were put on a waitlist. Survey results showed that the program was very well received by the students. Key features of the lectures highlighted by students included: being well organized, interactive activities, uses of multimedia, and integration of clinical cases. Students reported that the lab sessions were exceedingly helpful and they appreciated the constructive feedback from instructors. They commented that the instructors were knowledgeable and engaging. Several students expressed their appreciation using phrases such as “beyond amazing”.
Significance/Conclusions
The program was well received by the students. They attributed the program for enhancing their desire to pursue a career in dentistry.
Format
Event
Outcomes of a Pre-Dental Bootcamp Facilitated by Dental Students
As a person decides on making a commitment to a career, especially one that requires as much time and money as dentistry, it is important that one is able to experience the field prior to devoting themselves. This presentation shares the design and outcomes of a new program, the Pre-Dental Boot Camp (PDB), at a private dental school. The goals of the program are two-fold: (1) to teach pre-dental students foundational concepts in dentistry while offering hands-on experience in the lab; and (2) to provide opportunities for networking with mentors and potential future colleagues.
Comments/Acknowledgements
This program was presented at the 2019 ADEA Annual Session in Chicago, IL last March. It is an educational program that is continuing on after its founders graduate.