Applying for Dental Hygiene at Lane Community College

I'm interested in the dental hygiene program at Lane Community College. Could anyone share some details on the application process and any tips for putting together a strong application?

Applying for a dental hygiene program like the one at Lane Community College is a multistep process, requiring both general admission to the college and a separate application to the dental hygiene program. First and foremost, you need to apply for general admission to the college, which typically involves submitting your high school transcripts or GED scores.

Once you're admitted to the college, you'll need to complete the required prerequisite courses for the dental hygiene program. These are usually courses in biology, chemistry, and math. Make sure to earn strong grades in these courses as they will be closely reviewed during the dental hygiene program admission process.

The next step is to submit your application to the dental hygiene program itself, which typically happens once a year. This application usually requires proof of your academic performance, including transcripts showing completion of the prerequisites, and can also require letters of recommendation, so it's a good idea to nurture relationships with instructors in your prerequisite courses for this purpose.

Additionally, some programs, like the one at Lane Community College, require observation or job shadowing hours in a dental office. This aspect can help show your genuine interest and commitment to the field. Collect these hours and potentially ask for a recommendation letter from the dentist you shadow.

Some schools also require standardized test scores, like the Test of Essential Academic Skills (TEAS). Studying for this exam demonstrates your readiness to handle the college-level coursework.

In summary, my top tips for a strong application include:

1. Get strong grades for prerequisite courses.

2. Gather substantial observation or shadowing experience.

3. Secure compelling letters of recommendation.

4. Score well on any required standardized tests.

Last but not least, make sure to keep track of all deadlines and give yourself plenty of time to pull all of these elements together. The more thoughtful and timely your application, the better chance you have of standing out. Good luck as you navigate this process!