What One Interview Question Taught Me About Honesty and Getting Accepted (A Mentor’s Story)

After all these years working with pre-dental students, one story really stands out—something you won’t find on any official admissions website.

A few cycles back, I worked with a student who was worried about a gap in her transcript. She took time off to care for a family member and thought it would ruin her chances. We practiced her interviews, and I told her: be honest, but don’t apologize for being human. Share what you learned and how it made you stronger.

During her interview, the admissions officer brought up the gap. Instead of panicking, she explained what happened and what it taught her: compassion, time management, and balancing school with life.
Afterward, the admissions officer said, “I wish more applicants would be this honest. Dental school is tough, and we want people who can handle life’s curveballs.”

She got accepted—and I always tell students now:
Don’t hide your story. Your challenges might be the very reason you stand out.

Stats matter, but the story behind them matters even more.

—Nancy, Destroyer Nation

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