How to Build Strong Relationships with Faculty and Mentors
Dental school is challenging—not just academically, but personally and professionally. While strong grades and DAT scores are important, your relationships with faculty and mentors can be just as impactful in shaping your success. These connections open doors to research opportunities, strong recommendation letters, and valuable career guidance that lasts well beyond graduation.
At Dental School Declassified, we believe mentorship is one of the most powerful tools for growth. Here’s how to build and maintain meaningful relationships with faculty and mentors in dentistry.
1. Be Professional from Day One
First impressions matter. Show up to class prepared, engage actively, and demonstrate respect for faculty and staff. Professionalism sets the tone for building credibility and trust.
👉 Tip: Simple actions—like being on time, dressing appropriately in clinic, and addressing faculty respectfully—go a long way.
2. Show Genuine Interest
Faculty and mentors want to help motivated students. Take the time to ask thoughtful questions, participate in discussions, and express curiosity about their area of expertise.
👉 Example: If a professor specializes in oral pathology and you’re interested in that field, ask about their research or clinical experiences.
3. Seek Guidance Beyond Academics
Don’t limit your conversations to class material. Faculty and mentors can provide advice on:
Dental specialties and career paths
Work-life balance as a dentist
Research or leadership opportunities
Professional networking strategies
Showing that you value their broader perspective strengthens the relationship.
4. Be Consistent, Not Transactional
Strong relationships are built over time. Instead of only reaching out when you need a recommendation or exam help, check in regularly. Share updates on your progress or thank them for past advice.
👉 Consistency shows that you see them as mentors—not just gatekeepers.
5. Get Involved in Research and Activities
Joining faculty-led projects or committees is an excellent way to deepen your relationships. Research collaborations and extracurricular activities give you more one-on-one time to learn directly from mentors while contributing meaningfully to the field.
6. Follow Up and Show Gratitude
After receiving guidance, always follow up with a thank-you note or email. Small gestures of gratitude demonstrate respect and help keep the relationship warm.
👉 Remember: Mentorship is a two-way street. Expressing appreciation encourages faculty and mentors to continue investing in you.
7. Maintain Relationships After Graduation
Your mentors can remain invaluable resources throughout your career. Stay in touch with occasional updates, holiday greetings, or sharing how their guidance impacted you. These ongoing connections can lead to professional collaborations or even job opportunities down the road.
How Dental School Declassified Supports Mentorship
At Dental School Declassified, we know how critical mentorship is for pre-dental and dental students. That’s why our tutoring programs don’t just cover academics—we pair students with licensed dentists who provide:
One-on-one mentorship from professionals who’ve been through the journey
Guidance on applications, interviews, and specialty decisions
Long-term support for building confidence and career direction
By blending tutoring with mentorship, we help you thrive in both academics and relationships.
Final Thoughts
Building strong relationships with faculty and mentors is one of the smartest investments you can make in your dental education. With professionalism, consistency, and genuine interest, these connections can provide lifelong support for your career in dentistry.
📩 Ready to find your own mentors and boost your success? Contact Dental School Declassified today to connect with licensed dentist-tutors who can guide you every step of the way.
