A predental career program in a postgraduate institution

Area of Science:

• Dental Education
• Healthcare Professions Recruitment

Background:

• Dental schools need qualified applicants.
• Early exposure to dentistry can inform career choices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a structured volunteer program for aspiring dental students.
• To assess the program's impact on recruitment and student insight.

Main Methods:

• A volunteer program was established at Eastman Dental Center.
• The program provided realistic dental practice exposure.
• High school and college students participated over three years.

Main Results:

• Twenty-six students completed the program.
• Student responses were overwhelmingly positive.
• Students served as valuable assistants in postgraduate training.

Conclusions:

• The program effectively provides realistic dental exposure.
• This model can enhance the recruitment of motivated dental students.
• The experience offers a rational basis for career decisions in dentistry.