Alumni Testimonials

David: University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine – Class of 2025

Upon graduating from Stony Brook University in 2016, I wasn’t sure what the next step was. I knew I wanted to go into healthcare, caring for those in need and without adequate resources to receive quality care. I decided to pursue dentistry, a profession that demands discipline, creativity and grit. I applied to dental school 4 years out of college and was summarily rejected by all 16 schools I applied to. This was when I decided to pursue a Master’s degree to enhance my application in addition to becoming a better student. I wanted to show that despite being out of school for a while, I was able to handle the rigors of dental school. After some research, I settled on Boston University’s Masters of Science in Oral Health Program. I had never been to Boston but I knew it would be great to leave New York and experience a new environment. I went to classes with D1 students, learning the same basic science courses. Furthermore, I made lifelong friends at the program, friends who I related to on a personal and professional level. The rigor of the classes were substantial. Fortunately, Zoom saved the day as my friends and I studied and laughed together and in some cases, worried together about dental school acceptances.

I firmly believe to this day that Dr. Davies’ letter of recommendation along with the status of the Oral Health Sciences Program opened doors for me. I met Dr. Maura Kelley who was and still is one of the best professors I have learned from. I am currently taking Head and Neck Anatomy and her slides are still a point of reference along with Dr. Schreiber and Dr. Lehman’s Biochemistry and Physiology notes. In the spring, I made the decision to attend the University of Pennsylvania Dental School. It was a bittersweet decision as I would be leaving Boston. I consider Dr. Davies my mentor and in many instances, the mother I needed during an inflection point in my life.

The Oral Health Sciences Program is more than just academics. It is a family of individuals who genuinely wish you success as a person and professional. I would attend the program again and again and again. It is a worthy investment. When you complete the program, you will realize during dental school that you are quite ahead of the curve. Furthermore, Boston is truly a wonderful place to be, especially in the summer. I may have left for dental school but I will be back. I am forever grateful to Boston, Boston University and the individuals behind the Oral Health Sciences program, most especially Dr. Theresa Davies for taking a chance on me.

Ryen: University of California in San Francisco School of Dentistry – Class of 2025

After graduating from my undergraduate institution with a degree in theater and switching my career path to dentistry, I knew I had a lot of catching up to do academically. After graduation, I moved to Boston and started working full time while taking the science pre-requisite courses for dental school admission in the evenings. I knew that these classes alone would not be enough for me to do well in dental school since I lacked the plethora of extra biology and chemistry classes from not pursuing a science-based undergraduate degree. I started researching different programs in the New England area for students looking to broaden their biological horizon and strengthen their foundation in the basic sciences. Once I found the Oral Health Sciences Masters program at Boston University, I knew that this program would be the perfect way to not only strengthen my knowledge in the basic sciences, but also give me experience of what first-year Dental students experience in their didactic coursework. Since OHS students take classes with the D1 students in the fall of their first semester, as well as in the spring, I knew that doing well or doing poorly would gauge my readiness for the rigor of being a D1. Doing the OHS program in a full-blown pandemic came with its own challenges, but that didn’t stop all of us from trying our best and learning as much from the experience as we could. After completing the first semester, I actually had to re-evaluate if I would be successful as a dental student because of how rigorous the courses were!

During this same fall semester, I was fortunate to receive multiple interview invitations and towards the end of the semester, multiple dental school acceptances! I can wholeheartedly say that this would not have happened without challenging myself and starting the OHS program. Once the spring semester started, I felt like I had a good grasp on how to effectively study and be successful this time around, and I was! The OHS program was one of the best decisions I have ever made, and I still use Dr. Kelley’s slides from the spring Head & Neck anatomy course to study for my Anatomy course in dental school now! Dr. Davies is one of the best program directors a student could ever ask for. She wholehearted cares for her students and truly wants to make sure each and every one of us finishes strong and has a successful career as future oral healthcare provider’s. This program is a MUST for any pre-dental student looking to strengthen their repertoire for a successful didactic experience once they matriculate into dental school.

Allie: Boston University School of Dental Medicine – Class of 2025

Growing up in a small town in Wisconsin of just 2,000 people, to then attending undergrad at a Big 10 University was a large transition for me which lead me to become over involved in extracurriculars without allocating enough time to focus on my academics. After graduation, I decided I did not want to apply to dental schools without putting my best foot forward, especially my academic capabilities. I made the decision to take a gap year and complete my Masters in Oral Health Sciences at BU. I chose this program not only because it’s located in a prestigious academic hub of the country, but there isn’t another program like it where you are immersed in the dental curriculum and working with dental students while earning an MS degree. I packed up my things and moved out to Boston without knowing a single person in the city. I can say I’m incredibly happy I made this choice. There are challenging times throughout the program while you’re applying to schools but I couldn’t have asked for better support. Tutors, interview preparation, and genuine connections were all easy in reach. I felt better support from this program than any of my 4 years in undergrad.

As December rolled around I was accepted to more schools than I could have imagined and felt better prepared to take on the curriculum that dental school challenges you with. A year later I committed to attend BUGSDM and I am a representative of my class and the school as the DMD 2025 Class President. Without OHS and the support and guidance from Dr. Davies I would not have been at where I am today; confident, thriving in dental school, and having an extensive network in the dental community.

Najeeb: Western University College of Dental Medicine – Class of 2024

Boston University’s OHS program was challenging in every aspect, but it taught me a priceless study skill. Undergraduate study methods were not enough, so I had to relearn how to study and manage my time more efficiently to achieve. Being surrounded by outstanding faculty and advisors made me feel more comfortable and made the transition from San Diego, California to Boston, Massachusetts much easier for me. After having a relatively tough first semester in the rigorous classes, my performance in the second semester improved a lot. I learned how to manage my time, and that was reflected in my grades. The second semester involved more dental-related events and seminars that made us feel like we were really in dental school. All of the hard work that year paid and I ended up getting multiple interviews and was finally accepted into dental school.

Being part of OHS gave me the huge academic boost I needed to get into dental school. OHS not only gave me excellent biology knowledge, but it has helped me adapt well to the rigorous dental school classes I am taking now as well. After finishing my first semester in dental school this fall, I know that attending the OHS program was the best decision I have made in my life.

Cole: University of Colorado School of Dental Medicine – Class of 2024

I went into my undergraduate career at Boston College with the end goal of applying and gaining entry into dental school. I struggled with my academics and my GPA was not where I had wanted it. During my senior year, I applied to 24 dental schools and received zero interviews. I started looking at all possible options for my future. I heard about the Boston University Oral Health Sciences program and knew it was the key for me to find success. Once gaining entry into the OHS program, I found myself surrounded by classmates who were just as motivated as myself in pursuing dentistry. The learning environment made it possible for me to find success in the classroom.

Whenever I felt lost or needed any guidance, Dr. Davies was always there for me. She helped me all the way through the program and made it her personal mission to not only help me, but everyone in OHS to be accepted into dental school. The second time I applied to dental school, just a year later, I received 7 interviews. The only difference in my application was OHS. I can honestly say that getting my masters in Oral Health Sciences from Boston University was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I will always be in debt to my friends, the staff, and faculty at Boston University, especially Dr. Davies, who helped me achieve my dream of attending dental school.

Samara: Tufts University School of Dental Medicine – Class of 2024

If I could give advice to any pre-dental student looking to better their grades, perfect their study habits, and make amazing connections along the way, I’d say this is what you’ve been looking for. As a current dental student I actually say “I’m so grateful I did the OHS program” at least once a day because it made such a difference in my journey. The OHS path is a challenging one, and in order to do well you need to put in a great amount of work. At first you will start off shaky but you will grow in skill, knowledge, and confidence with every exam, you will be impressed with yourself. The curriculum is set up so you’re taking some first year dental school courses alongside first year dental students at BU.

What’s amazing about this program is that you’ll never feel as though you’re in it alone. Your classmates, from all different backgrounds, will be walking this same path with you and you’ll make lasting friendships. OHS alumni and dental students are your key resources when you need advice and are always there to help. Lastly, Dr. Davies is the gem of this program. If you have any questions, if you want any advice, or if you just need someone to talk to, Dr. Davies is the most amazing person you’ll ever meet. I’ll end this by saying, you’ll have all the resources and support you need to succeed and do well. Take this as your chance to stand out and give it your absolute all! I credit this program for the acceptances that I received, and it was by far the best decision that I made.

Tommie: Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine – Class of 2023

Tommie During my undergraduate career at UNC, I really struggled not only with finding myself but also academically. I applied to multiple dental schools, and I had only one interview, which went terribly. After getting my numerous rejection letters, I lacked guidance and felt stuck. I had no idea what I’d be doing beyond my undergraduate career. One of the schools I applied to contacted me and instructed me to complete a masters program to strengthen my academic credentials. I did some research and came across a few different masters programs and applied to a few of them. After reading a lot more about the OHS program, I was super excited to apply to it. I submitted my application and was notified of my acceptance within two weeks! I moved up to Boston later that year and started my journey as a masters student. I honestly didn’t know what to expect, but I was excited nonetheless. The program was TOUGH. It really allowed me to get a taste of what dental school was like. Physiology and biochemistry were honestly a struggle, but I persisted through and was ultimately successful. The second semester went even better than the first.

It’s a really great program because not only do you get to take these rigorous dental school classes, but you also get to meet other people in your shoes. We got to attend numerous dental-related events and seminars, and we made lots of connections. I think that the best part is that if we get into BU and choose to go, we don’t have to retake the dental school courses we take in the program! It’s been a really great experience, and I’m excited to continue my career at BU dental in the fall!

Rob: New York University – Class of 2023

After being denied from the 17 dental schools I applied to during my senior year of college, I thought that my chances of getting into dental school were slim to none. I found myself wondering what I would do when I graduated from college. I considered shadowing, working, or taking more science courses. While researching options, I found the OHS program. The day I got accepted I knew that it was a major step in my journey to dental school. During my time at OHS I learned how to push myself and learned how to strive to achieve my greatest potential. Not only did I learn how to be a more diligent student, I learned how to prioritize my time.

Taking courses with the dental students pushed me to be the best student I could be. Dr. Davies and Dr. Kelley care for each of their students, whether it is through academic support or mock interviews, they support their students every step of the way. The OHS program has made the transition into dental school an easy one. I know how to study effectively, and when to study, which has been crucial for my academic success. This program is perfect for reaching your goal to be accepted into a competitive dental program.

Omer: Tufts University School of Dental Medicine – Class of 2022

I knew I had to pursue my dental education locally, so I aimed for dental schools within New England area, specifically Boston and Maine. After receiving my bachelor’s degree from Saint Anselm College I was encouraged to enroll in a Master degree to strengthen my resume. I spoke with admissions at the Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine and they recommended that I apply to the Oral Health Sciences (OHS) program. Before applying, I reached out to the director, Dr. Davies, who was a big factor towards why I decided to enter this master’s program. I was very enthusiastic during the orientation of OHS, as it was the first time I saw several perseverance students all interested in dentistry.

The OHS program was very challenging, because it was very different from of an undergraduate level. I started taking classes with BU dental students along with several other courses from their medical school. As challenging as it was, the experience was worth it. Although, the objective of the program was to get into dental school, it also allowed me to change my study habits, gain confidence towards my academic performance, and strengthen my connections. I learned so much in the short few months from several instructors, especially Dr. Kelley. She was by far was the most enthusiastic and superlative instructor I have ever met. Throughout all of this, Dr. Davies served as a remarkable mentor as she was available to answer several tedious questions, prepared mock interviews, and was always there for support. OHS has taught me several valuable skills that guided me towards my success in my first semester at dental school. I definitely recommend it to anyone considering the dental profession, especially if they need to improve their academic performance or would like to get a feel of what dental school is like before applying. I can guarantee that this program will prepare you with the mindset and work habits that will contribute to success towards your dental profession.

Karen: Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine – Class of 2022

Karen

Moving from South Florida to Boston to start the OHS program was an incredibly difficult decision to make. I now know that it was the greatest choice I could have made for my personal and professional growth. This program was a tremendous academic challenge as it gave me a literal glimpse of what dental school is like. In the OHS program, I was integrated into the rigorous dental school curriculum at the BU School of Dental Medicine. I worked harder and have dedicated myself more than ever. The educational challenges endured in every step of OHS have taught me priceless study skills. I learned new ways to properly manage my time and acquired the ability to coach myself through even the most stressful times.

Throughout the entire duration of the OHS program, I was given outstanding guidance and counseling. This, along with discipline and commitment has given me the confidence needed to succeed in a professional school program. The opportunities presented required more tenacity and endurance than I thought I was capable of however this academic and personal journey has helped me evolve into a competent, capable and successful dental student.

Additional Testimonies

Iriff: University of Southern California Ostrow School of Dentistry – Class of 2019

My time off after obtaining my bachelor’s degree solidified my decision to pursue dentistry. However, I felt that I needed to be more academically prepared prior to applying to dental school. Pursuing my master’s through the Boston University Oral Health Sciences program gave me the confidence I needed as I applied because I could show schools that I was capable of succeeding in a dental program. I am now a member of the class of 2019 at the University of Southern California Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry and because of the OHS program, I was able to quickly adjust to the D1 Problem-Based Learning curriculum and start off my dental education on the right foot. Although I focused on the academic aspect it offered in making my decision to attend, the OHS program also stood out because of the environment and relationships it fostered between and among the staff and students. The staff does an amazing job in supporting its students throughout the application process. Dr. Davies is not only a wonderful professor but, an attentive and caring mentor as well. I also connected with individuals who shared my passion for dentistry and am looking forward to calling them my colleagues in the near future. Obtaining my master’s through the BU OHS program made a difference both prior to and during my dental education and I would highly recommend it to anyone interested in pursuing dentistry.

Eshere: Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine – Class of 2019

The OHS program was by far the best decision of my life. The application process for dental school can be both exhaustive and tedious, especially when faced with setbacks the first time around. Giving up seemed so easy, however that was not an option for me. It had been my dream and goal to become a dentist my entire life. Not wanting to take an entire year off after graduating from undergrad, I applied to the program and gained acceptance. Even though the courses were rigorous, the support of faculty, advisors, and classmates helped me to succeed. Having the opportunity to take classes along with the dental students reinforced my passion for dentistry. This opportunity allowed me to improve on my science academic standing and the DAT. I was also able to evaluate and change my study habits and test taking skills along the way. I am now better equipped to tackle dental school.

Tom: Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine, President of Class of 2018

The Boston University Oral Health Sciences Master’s program is a well thought-out, enthusiastically run program that provided me with unmatched opportunity. Through this program, I was able to network with faculty and staff in the BU community, improve my communication skills through a variety of leadership positions, and prove I had the aptitude and drive to succeed in the rigorous environment that is dental school. As a result, I am now well on my way to becoming a part of the best profession in the world.

Katie: Arizona School of Dentistry and Oral Health – Class of 2018

I didn’t always know that I wanted be a dentist. I pursued biomedical engineering as an undergraduate with the intention of going into the medical device industry. However, as I began to take elective classes in biomaterials and tissue engineering during my Sophomore year, I began to see that dentistry was the perfect application for my engineering degree. Because my undergraduate coursework was heavily skewed towards math and engineering courses, I had little opportunity to take certain biology classes required for entrance into some dental schools (microbiology, physiology, and biochemistry). The OHS program not only helped me to complete these necessary courses, but gave me the confidence to succeed in dental school, as I took classes along with BU’s dental students.

I have no doubt that this program made me a more competitive applicant, and schools that I interviewed at genuinely seemed to hold this program in high regard. By winter break I had already had a handful of offers from dental schools, and once my fall semester grades were sent to the dental schools I applied to, I received several more interview invitations. My favorite part of the program was how the professors linked key concepts to how they would be of use to us in the dental field. This really motivated me to learn the material as best as I could as I knew that it would be relevant to me later when I start to practice. Best of all, I know that this program will make my first year of dental school more manageable, since I will have taken dental school coursework within a year of starting school.

Gemma: University of Michigan School of Dentistry – Class of 2017

The day I was accepted into the OHS program was a major milestone for me in terms of my education and goals. Although I’ve known for a long time that I wanted to be a dentist, it took me longer to learn how to study and really gain the focus necessary to achieve the goals that I set out to. I initially applied to dental school when I graduated from college, and had to re-evaluate my application after not being accepted. As a result, I am a non-traditional student. I came into the OHS program with not only my experience as an undergrad, but also with experience working in the field as an oral surgery assistant, and as a post-baccalaureate student. I decided that I wanted to further my education and earn a higher degree, one that would not only make me a more desirable applicant for dental school admission, but that would also help me once I became a dental student. Choosing the OHS program at BU was a simple decision for me. It is, in my opinion, the best program of this kind because you take classes alongside first year dental students, gaining both an understanding of what to expect from dental school, and the experience of learning how to study for those classes, which is immensely important because it requires a different type of studying than for undergraduate courses.

The environment at BU is extremely supportive for developing yourself as a student. Not only is Dr. Davies a wonderful professor, she is the most supportive advisor anyone could ask for, truly caring about each student in the program. The program provides opportunities to meet new people, with very different backgrounds, and make new friendships while reinforcing the ultimate goal of entering the dental profession. I was accepted to multiple dental schools and completed the program following the one-year timeline. Upon completing my first semester of dental school, I was able to realize exactly how crucial my time at BU in the OHS program was to my success and preparedness as a dental student. I could not recommend the program more, and could not be more appreciative of the education I got as a student at BU.

Alex: Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine – Class of 2017:

I was an older student who had worked for several years after college, before deciding to pursue dental school. Due to a weaker undergraduate GPA and having been out of school for awhile, I chose the GMS – OHS program because it could provide me with a rigorous academic curriculum which could show dental schools that I was a competitive applicant. In addition, the accommodating BU faculty provided a great deal of support and guidance that helped me gain admissions to dental school. Finally, as a non traditional dental school applicant, the two year OHS track helped me transition back into an academic environment, as well as providing me library research experience, which helped secure a job in the dental public health field during my gap year.

Ruth: Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry – Class of 2016

I am a first-generation college student. Enrolling in OHS has given me the dental school experience post undergrad. The program has given me a stronger background in the sciences and has prepared me for a more condensed curriculum in dental school. OHS helped me acquire critical study skills necessary for dental school, through academic support of the professors and fellow classmates. Everyone here is very dedicated to ensuring a student’s success. I am primed for the upcoming challenging curriculum of dental school. I will be enrolling in the D.D.S. program at Meharry School of Dentistry in Fall 2013. I aspire to have a career in dental public health, addressing the oral health disparities in the lower socioeconomic and disadvantaged population.

Ross: New York University College of Dentistry – Class of 2016

Several factors led me to select the Boston University OHS program for my Masters education. It was important to me to have a small, science intensive academic experience, both of which OHS offered. However, I was especially drawn to the integration with first year dental school courses as well as students, which I thought would be an excellent prelude to pursuing a dental career. The guidance afforded me by both the professors and faculty were additionally key in helping me create a strong dental school application. After completing the program, I can say that I had made the correct decision. The OHS program gave me the skills and the background necessary to succeed in my current academic environment in dental school. I believe that this type of focused dental education in a Masters program is the greatest strength of OHS.

Jae: Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine – Class of 2016:

Immediately after graduating from the University of Michigan, I entered the OHS program choosing to do the one-year track. The opportunity to take classes with current dental students at Goldman School of Dental Medicine appealed to me. In addition, the rigorous curriculum allowed me to demonstrate my ability to succeed in dental school courses. I believe I made the best choice because OHS was the perfect transition for my gap year between my undergraduate studies and dental school.

Ramiz: Western University of Health Sciences College of Dental Medicine, Class of 2015

In total I applied to dental school three times: originally as a student at UC Davis and later as a part time student at San Francisco State University. Every application cycle I was taking more classes and doing well with each class. Yet, I was not getting interview invitations. The hardest thing for me was getting those rejection letters over and over again. I knew I had to change something. I was so lucky to be accepted into the BU OHS program. To this day, I am thankful for all the experiences that come from my time at BU. It made my first two years in dental school significantly less painful. There is no better way to prepare for dental school than to actually take classes with the dental students! The advisers are amazing. And the dental school is very well respected. This program is an amazing stepping stone to get you into dental school!