University of Detroit Mercy’s Summer Enrichment Program (SEP): Your Path to Dental School
January 29th, 2025
If you are a college student or recent graduate with aspirations of pursuing a career in dentistry, the Summer Enrichment Program (SEP) at the University of Detroit Mercy is an excellent opportunity to gain the skills, knowledge, and experience necessary to improve your dental school application and explore the profession more deeply. This four-week residential program is aimed at students from diverse backgrounds who are looking to strengthen their candidacy for dental school.
The SEP provides an immersive, hands-on learning experience that combines academic enrichment, clinical exposure, and professional development activities. Hosted on the University of Detroit Mercy Dental Campus in Detroit, Michigan, this program equips participants with practical knowledge and resources to prepare them for their dental school journey.
Why Participate in SEP?
The University of Detroit Mercy’s SEP is designed for students who are not only committed to pursuing a career in dentistry but also those who identify as educationally, socially, or economically disadvantaged, or belong to underrepresented minority groups in the dental field. The program offers a unique opportunity to deepen your knowledge of dental school prerequisites, gain clinical experience, and build professional relationships in a supportive and inclusive environment.
Key Program Highlights
✔ Dental Admission Test (DAT) Preparation
Prepare for the Dental Admission Test (DAT) with comprehensive workshops and test-taking strategies. This preparation is crucial in helping you achieve competitive scores for dental school applications.
✔ Hands-On Clinical and Laboratory Experience
Participants will be exposed to state-of-the-art dental simulation labs, where they will practice basic dental skills in a safe and controlled environment. Students also have the opportunity to shadow dental professionals in clinical settings, offering firsthand experience in patient care and dental procedures.
✔ Workshops and Seminars
A series of workshops are included, covering topics like:
Dental School Admissions: Understand the admissions process and gain insight into how dental schools evaluate applications.
Personal Statement & Interview Preparation: Receive expert guidance on crafting a compelling personal statement and acing dental school interviews.
Financial Aid Guidance: Learn about scholarship opportunities, financial aid, and strategies for managing education costs.
Cultural Competency: Understand the importance of providing dental care to diverse populations and learn how to be culturally competent in your future practice.
✔ Mentorship and Networking
SEP offers mentorship from current dental students, faculty, and practicing dentists. The program is an excellent opportunity to develop professional connections that will help guide your future career in dentistry.
✔ Community Outreach and Service
The program emphasizes the importance of community service in dentistry, with opportunities to participate in outreach programs that address oral health disparities in underserved communities.
✔ Cultural and Social Activities
In addition to academic and professional enrichment, SEP offers students opportunities for social interaction and cultural exploration. Activities include tours of Detroit, trips to local museums, and attendance at sports events, fostering a sense of community among participants.
Program Details
Dates:
Start Date: May 27, 2025
End Date: June 27, 2025
Location:
University of Detroit Mercy Dental Campus, Detroit, Michigan
Duration:
4 weeks (Full-time, residential program)
Eligibility:
To qualify for the SEP, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Be a college junior, senior, or recent graduate (within the past five years) as of June 2025.
Strong interest in pursuing a career in dentistry and a commitment to serving underserved populations.
Minimum science GPA of 2.9.
Completed required coursework, including:
Two semesters of biology with labs
Two semesters of inorganic chemistry with labs
Two semesters of organic chemistry with labs
One semester of physics
One semester of college-level mathematics
One semester of English composition
Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident or have appropriate documentation for dental school application eligibility.
Preference is given to students who are educationally, socially, or economically disadvantaged or underrepresented minorities in the field of dentistry.
Applicants must also be fully vaccinated against Hepatitis B, Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis (TdaP), MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella), Varicella, and COVID-19.
How to Apply
Application Deadline:
February 14, 2025, by 5 PM EST.
Required Application Materials:
Online Application Form – Complete the online application available on the SEP website.
Official College Transcript – Submit a copy of your official academic transcript.
Personal Statement (500-750 words) – Answer the following questions:
Why are you interested in a career in dentistry?
How will the SEP help you achieve your academic and professional goals?
Two Letters of Recommendation – From professors, academic advisors, or mentors who are familiar with your academic performance and character.
How to Submit:
All documents should be submitted online via the SEP application portal by the deadline.
Be sure to upload your transcript, personal statement, and letters of recommendation in PDF format.
Contact Information
For any inquiries or additional information, reach out to:
Email: dental_diversity@udmercy.edu
Phone: 313-494-6653
Why Should You Apply to SEP?
Enhance your dental school application: SEP provides the tools you need to succeed in the highly competitive dental school admissions process.
Gain hands-on experience in clinical settings and dental labs, giving you a clear understanding of what a career in dentistry entails.
Network with dental professionals and fellow aspiring dentists, building a strong support system for your future endeavors.
Prepare for success: The program’s focus on DAT preparation, personal statement writing, and interview coaching will help you present your best self to dental schools.
Opportunity to serve: SEP encourages a deep commitment to community service, enabling you to make a positive impact on underserved populations.
Enjoy the full college experience: SEP’s residential program allows you to live on campus, meet new friends, and enjoy social and cultural activities in Detroit.
With gratitude,
The Happy Smiles Team