Though SUU does not host a pre-dental major, we offer the support
and guidance to ensure students interested in the dental field are
well-positioned for acceptance into dental school. SUU students majoring
in biology and chemistry have gained admission to top dental schools
by completing the required dental pre-requisites while pursuing their
undergraduate degree. College of Science academic advisors and pre-dental
faculty advisors work closely with pre-dental students to chart the
ideal academic program for their success.
FACULTY SPOTLIGHT
Name: Dr. Rachel Smetanka
Graduated: B.A. 1996, Utah State University;
Ph.D. 2002, New Mexico State University
Current Job: Assistant professor of biology
“I came to SUU almost 5 years ago after teaching in a graduate professional health program at James Madison University in Virginia. After growing up in Montana, I was eager to return to the west and find a smaller, more undergraduate focused institution. I have found SUU to be extremely dedicated to both a broad and deep experience for our undergraduates. I believe that the students at SUU are very focused and dedicated to hard work and strong preparation for their post-baccalaureate endeavors. The faculty at SUU are excellent teachers, active scholars, amazing people, and I am proud to be part of the SUU community.”
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POINTS of DISTINCTION
- Students graduating with a biology or chemistry degree enjoy high placement rates in dental school. In 2009, 11 of 15 students who applied to dental school were accepted (73%); in 2008, 12 of 14 students enjoyed acceptance (86%).
- We work closely with the Rural Health Scholars program on our campus, providing resume-building activities to ensure our graduates are competitive in the dental school admissions process.
POSSIBLE CAREERS
Professional careers in dentistry, various specialties and dental research
AVAILABLE RESOURCES
Pre-dental advising is done by academic advisors, faculty members and the Rural Health Scholars program, providing each student with a personalized plan for academic and professional success.
STUDENT INVOLVEMENT
- Campus chapter of the American Student Dental Association (ASDA)
- Opportunities for job shadowing, service learning and leadership training through Rural Health Scholars
CONTACT INFORMATION
- Department Name:Biology & Physical Science
- Department Contact: Rachel Smetanka (Biology) or J. Ty Redd (Physical Science)
- Website: http://suu.edu/cose/biology/ or http://suu.edu/cose/physci/
- Email Address: smetanka@suu.edu or redd@suu.edu
- Department Phone: 435-586-7926 or 435-586-7904
- Department Fax: 435-865-8605