How to Network with Dental Schools Before You Apply
Stand Out From the Crowd and Make a Memorable Impression
Applying to dental school is more competitive than ever. Beyond strong DAT scores and GPA, successful applicants are those who take the initiative to build relationships with dental schools before they even apply. Why? Because networking with admissions teams, faculty, and current students gives you insider insight, shows your genuine interest, and can help your name stand out when applications are reviewed.
In this post, Dental School Declassified breaks down smart, actionable ways to start networking with dental schools—even if you're early in your pre-dental journey. Whether you're aiming for your dream school or still building your list, these tips will help you feel more confident and connected.
🎯 Why Networking Before You Apply Matters
Many pre-dental students focus on the numbers—DAT, GPA, shadowing hours—but relationships can open doors. Here's what networking helps you do:
✅ Learn about a school's mission, curriculum, and culture
✅ Ask direct questions and get unfiltered answers
✅ Show initiative and professionalism early on
✅ Make a lasting impression on admissions reps
✅ Tailor your personal statement and interview responses more effectively
🧩 How to Start Networking with Dental Schools
You don’t need connections or a fancy background to start networking. Here’s how to do it step-by-step.
1. Attend Virtual or In-Person Info Sessions
Dental schools regularly host Q&A sessions, webinars, open houses, and pre-dental outreach events. These are golden opportunities to connect with admissions reps, learn about unique programs, and ask thoughtful questions.
Tips for success:
Turn your camera on and introduce yourself if it’s virtual
Ask one specific question about the school’s values, curriculum, or community
Send a follow-up thank you email if contact info is provided
🗓 Check the ADEA Events Calendar or each school's admissions page.
2. Meet Schools at Pre-Dental Fairs and Conferences
Events like the ADEA GoDental Recruitment Event or MAPS/Pre-Dental regional conferences host dozens of dental schools in one place. It’s the perfect opportunity to collect brochures, make face-to-face connections, and ask about what they look for in applicants.
Pro networking tip:
Create a one-sheet with your photo, GPA, DAT score (if available), and a short bio. It shows initiative and gives reps something to remember you by.
3. Connect with Admissions Reps via Email
Many dental schools list their admissions contact info on their websites. Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself via email. Keep it short, polite, and professional.
Example Email:
Subject: Pre-Dental Student Interested in [School Name]
Dear [Admissions Contact Name],
My name is [Your Name], and I’m a pre-dental student currently preparing for the DAT. I’ve been researching your program and appreciate [something specific about their school].
I’d love to learn more about your community and the kind of applicants you look for. Is there a time I could attend an info session or speak with a current student ambassador?
Thank you for your time,
[Your Full Name]
Even a simple exchange can help you stand out come application season.
4. Talk to Current Dental Students
No one has better insight than students currently attending the school. Reach out via:
Social media (Instagram student takeovers are common)
Pre-dental forums like Student Doctor Network (SDN) or r/Dentistry
Emailing student ambassadors listed on the school’s website
Ask about their experience, favorite courses, what surprised them, and what advice they have for applicants.
5. Engage with Schools on Social Media
Follow the official accounts of dental schools on Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, and YouTube. Leave comments, ask questions during live events, and share content when appropriate.
This helps you stay in the loop and interact casually with the community.
🦷 What to Say (and Avoid) When Networking
Ask about:
The school’s mission and how it influences admissions
Curriculum highlights (like early clinical exposure or research opportunities)
Community outreach programs or global initiatives
What sets them apart from similar programs
Avoid:
Asking questions easily answered on their website
Talking only about your DAT/GPA
Over-emailing or being too informal
📋 Use What You Learn in Your Application
Once you’ve had conversations with schools, you can reference them directly in your:
Personal statement – to show alignment with their mission
Supplemental essays – to demonstrate your interest and effort
Interview – to recall names, events, or stories that resonated with you
This personalized approach is what makes your application stand out.
💡 How Dental School Declassified Can Help
At Dental School Declassified, we help students not only boost their DAT scores—but also build confident, strategic dental school applications. Here's how we support your networking and admissions goals:
✅ Application coaching to help you craft personalized outreach emails
✅ Interview prep with real admissions-style questions
✅ 1-on-1 advising to narrow down your school list and tailor your application
✅ Customizable DAT study schedule PDF to keep you organized
📞 Ready to start connecting with your future dental school? Book a consult with our advising team and take your next step with confidence.
