For many students at Oakland University, their bachelor’s degree is just the beginning of their education. Many plan to continue on for professional degrees, including dentistry. The Pre-Dental Society provides students a way to learn more about the profession from those in it, and prepare for the future through community service, networking and leadership opportunities.

“The Pre-Dental Society is here to help students prepare applications for dental school and complete resumes that are more competitive,” Vasquez said.

The Pre-Dental Society has members from any major who are looking to explore the profession and possibly continue on to dental school. Vasquez came to Oakland in January to complete his prerequisites.

Approaching 30 years old, Vasquez wasn’t happy in his career in business and decided to explore dentistry. His adviser, Keith Berven, associate professor of biological sciences, referred Vasquez to the society and he has found it useful.

The Pre-Dental Society meets once a month and brings in professionals to discuss dentistry, explores the dental school application process, provides tips for the Dental Admissions Test and performs community service.

“We are looking to have fundraisers for the Gary Bernstein Clinic, which helps the uninsured seek and receive dental care,” said Vasquez.

Dental schools have become highly competitive in recent years and the Pre-Dental Society aims to help prepare OU students to compete for places in prestigious dental schools and also in the world of dentistry.

This year, the Pre-Dental Society plans to host a panel of professional dentists and a Navy recruiter, attend the University of Detroit Mercy dental school open house, explore local dental schools and provide access to Kaplan representatives for discounts and practice tests for the Dental Admissions Test.

For more information on the Pre-Dental Society, visit the Pre-Dental Society Web site and sign up for the e-mail list to be kept up-to-date on the group’s events.