There is no easy way about it, putting hours of hard work into a Dental Application that is then rejected can be soul destroying. However, this doesn’t define you as a candidate nor mean that you will not become an amazing dentist!
Hopefully this blog will inspire you and give you the motivation to push on as well as giving you some top tips on how to turn a rejection into a step towards becoming a Dentist.
At first it is tempting to dwell on the rejections and get into a habit of thinking negatively about your application. It is possible that this might have been the first time you have failed at something, but failing is a normal part of any career. Dentists encounter it in some form on a regular basis.
Dentistry is extremely competitive and it is important to remember that there are many successful students like yourself who have missed out on an offer.
Accept that whilst this time you might have been rejected, it does not mean you won’t become a Dentist! Reapplying after a rejection shows maturity, perseverance and commitment to a career in Dentistry, so use this to your advantage.
Reflect on your experience of rejection. How have you used this to gain a better insight into Dentistry and what does this show about how robust you are as a candidate?
Spend some time with a fresh outlook going over your application. It might be worth speaking to the universities you applied to and asking for feedback on your application, especially if you were rejected following an interview.
Finding weaknesses in your application, whether it’s your UKCAT score or interview technique, gives you a focus for improving your application and increasing your chances of being successful next time.
Reapplying to study Dentistry means that you will have a few months on your hands before the next UCAS cycle, and then some more time before University terms start. Universities like to see that you have reflected on your application and thought about how you are going to use your time productively.
This doesn’t mean that you have to spend the whole time working! Ultimately, many people dream of having a year off. Have a think about what you would like to do with your time and make a plan.
You will want to mention in your personal statement what you have been up to and what you are planning to do. Make sure you take into account key dates in the year for applications such as sitting the UKCAT, UCAS deadlines and interview dates.
Overall, make sure you make your rejection a positive thing. Whilst you can’t change the fact that your application was unsuccessful you can make sure you have prepared for your next application and that you spend the year having the time of your life!
Uploaded by Joelle on 6 April 2016
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