Admissions

Philosophy

 

May 28, 2020 with TTUHSC El Paso Woody L. Hunt School of Dental Medicine

The Woody L. Hunt School of Dental Medicine (WLHSDM) is committed to the recruitment and success of students with a breadth and depth of lived experiences and excellent academic and personal qualities that indicate their interest in meeting the distinct oral health needs of the greater El Paso and west Texas communities. The WLHSDM will carefully evaluate a candidate’s entire application packet, including cognitive and non-cognitive, or non-academic areas. This will include evaluations of an applicant’s personal statements, letters of recommendation, and other life, extracurricular, volunteer or employment experiences.

Admissions information data are not weighted, but indicate the importance placed on attracting highly-qualified individuals who: 1) can complete the rigorous curriculum in dental medicine; and 2) have demonstrated the motivation, maturity, interpersonal skills, and empathetic qualities necessary for a contemporary health provider.

While evidence of high intellectual ability and a strong record of scholastic achievement are vital for success in the study and practice of dentistry, the WLHSDM also recognizes the importance of the qualities of compassion, motivation, maturity, personal integrity, and effective communication as necessary traits in the health professions. Therefore, the personal interview will focus on non-academic criteria. Interviewers will assess the applicant's life experiences, motivation to enter dentistry, knowledge of issues in dentistry and health care, personal characteristics, interpersonal and communication skills, and problem solving ability.

No single factor will be used exclusively to admit or eliminate an applicant to the WLHSDM. Admissions policies will apply to all candidates, without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disabled status, sexual orientation, or expression of gender identity. The Admissions Committee will examine each candidate for overall suitability. The Admissions Committee will strive to select a class with varied backgrounds, interests, and life experiences to provide a stimulating and broadening learning environment for all students. Interest in the border region is one of the considered factors. With equal qualifications, preference may be given to residents of El Paso, the U.S. border region, and West Texas.