written by Ana Sangadala, pre-dental student at Emory University

On March 26, 2011, over fifty pre-dental students from various colleges and universities in Georgia met at the Georgia World Congress Center to attend the 4th Annual Pre-Dental Conference at the 99th Annual Hinman Dental Meeting. Dr. Babo and her team organized this truly unique, educational experience allowing pre-dental students, such as myself, to learn more about the practice of dentistry. Several schools were represented in the audience, including Emory University, Spelman College, Georgia State University, Columbus State University, Kennesaw State University, University of Georgia and Georgia Institute of Technology. Topics ranged from the Dental School admissions process and Aptitude Test, to the procedures performed in a dental clinic. This exceptional Conference provided a great overview of this career path, all while promoting diversity within this field. As pre-dental students, it is vital to understand the challenges and accomplishments we are facing in the upcoming years. This Conference equipped us with an overview of Dental School and the practice of Dentistry. It also provided the extra motivation that we, as students, sometimes need.

Prior to the meetings, students were able to peruse the Hinman Dental Society informational booths and meet several dental professionals. In addition to networking, this allowed students to gain a glimpse of the dental community of which we will eventually become a part. The pre-dental meeting began with a presentation from a speaker who introduced the presenters. The presenters included dental school representatives Dr. Carole Hanes from Georgia Health Sciences University, Dr. Steven Filler from University of Alabama, Dr. John Sauk from University of Louisville, and Dr. Gwendolyn Brown from the Medical University of South Carolina. Some schools even brought along current students who were able to give us a first-hand account of life as a dental student. In addition, several accomplished dentists from the Atlanta area supported students by showing their support and encouragement.

Following the initial presentations, pre-dental students were divided into small, rotating groups specifically designed to unite students from different schools. The students were able to exchange ideas and concerns. The groups allowed the students to have a more personal interaction with admissions faculty, Kaplan test prep representatives, and local dentists through question and answer sessions. This helped us begin understanding the important factors we need to consider when deciding which dental schools to choose during the application process. A diverse array of locations around the U.S. was represented. The informal atmosphere allowed students to feel more comfortable speaking with admissions faculty instead of considering it an intimidating process. All of the representatives were very informative, friendly, and accommodating. They understood the needs and concerns of pre-dental students, and were able to give us the support and information we needed. The local dentists provided us with hands-on activities that were a fun way to give us a glimpse of the hand skills required for this field. Concluding the program, students were encouraged to write feedback for Dr. Babo and her team.

One of the distinguishing characteristics of this meeting was its commitment to promoting diversity within the field of dentistry. Because of the various populations that are served, it is important to have diverse dental professionals in the field. The students were encouraged by all of the speakers to continue to pursue their goals regardless of their socio-economic status. All too often bright students with a passion for the healthcare field have limited opportunities and resources. A support system for minority students in the field of dentistry may seem hard to find but it was present at this conference. Programs like this are essential in encouraging students, by letting them know that their array of backgrounds are welcome and needed in the field.

From my experience at this conference, I can truly say that it was exactly what I needed in the midst of a pre-dental school semester. As a student fulfilling science pre-requisite courses, working, and participating in extra-curricular activities, attending this conference allowed me to mentally refresh the connection between my education and career objectives. This conference allowed me to reconfirm my aspiration and provided insight into resources that I could use to attain my goal to become a dentist. I was able to make inspirational contacts, find a support system in addition to my own school's pre-dental society, and even speak with students from other schools. I plan on continuing to attend the annual pre-dental Conference of the Hinman Dental Society throughout the rest my undergraduate career. I could not imagine missing this great opportunity.