What if I have a big weakness on my application?

Posted byddsadvisingPosted inUncategorizedTags:,

We all have strengths and weaknesses. 

In regards to weaknesses, many applicants think, “I have a shortcoming on my application, but if I get asked about it in an interview, then I have a response prepared and I’m ready to address it.” 

But what if the topic never comes up in an interview? Or—more upsettingly—what if the interview offer never comes?

I encourage you to take a look at your resume, transcripts, test scores, and essay. Have instructors and trusted mentors review your materials too. Do you or your mentors identify any weaknesses? Or, is there anything on your application that might leave an admissions committee member scratching their head?

Here are a few examples: 

  • Low GPA, especially low science GPA
  • Low test scores (especially if GPA is high)
  • Unexplained gaps in education or employment
  • Switching jobs frequently
  • Unexplained transfer between schools (such as transferring at an atypical point)
  • Multiple withdrawals on an academic transcript 
  • Lack of experience in the dental field (minimal shadowing, assisting, etc.)
  • Academic probation

Now, if you have identified red flags on your application, I’d like you to ask yourself how and why these came to be. This may not be an easy answer. I encourage transparency and I’d also like you to ask yourself “What have I learned since then? Has anything changed?”

Once this has been determined, consider addressing the elephant in the room. If you have a more serious red flag on your application, please do not ignore it and hope that no one notices. You should talk about it somewhere on your application. Give this some thought, and find a place on your application to write about your circumstances. There is even space built in AADSAS to add additional information. Yes, you can even address an application weakness on your personal statement or on an interview. It just needs to be done in an honest, tasteful way that flows with your theme and thesis statement.

I hope this post gets you thinking! Have a fantastic week!

-Dr. Lauren

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