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The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio School of Dentistry officially welcomed its new class of dental students with its annual Welcome to the Profession ceremony on July 27. 

The Class of 2028 reflects an era of increasing competitiveness into the school’s Doctor of Dental Surgery program, galvanizing school leaders’ commitment to maintaining a dynamic learning environment.

“The camaraderie in our class is already palpable,” said Kate McNeill, a first-year dental student. 

Fellow classmate John Meehan said, “Although I have only been on campus for one day, I am impressed by its size and available resources.”

Record-breaking year

With a record-breaking 1,131 applications received for the 2024 entry year, marking a 13% increase from last year, the selection process was more rigorous than ever, according to , director of admissions. “This surge also included a remarkable 25% increase in applicants from outside Texas,” she said. 

While it isn’t yet clear what drove the uptick, McNeill and Meehan had their opinions.

“I believe there is an increasing interest in dental school, especially at ��������, because of the growing attention on health care and health disparities, particularly in Texas,” McNeill said. “In hearing this need, more people of my generation feel called to make a difference. Among health professions, dentistry is also acknowledged for its advantages in work-life balance, which is attractive for my generation.”

“More people are recognizing the benefits of a dental career,” said Meehan. “The cost of attendance at dental schools outside of Texas is rising, making Texas schools an attractive option due to their lower tuition and high-quality education. This likely contributes to the increase in applications. I applied to �������� because it offers an excellent education and is close to home, providing me with family support.”

Class representation

From this year’s considerable applicant pool, 100 first-year students were accepted into the class after 318 hopefuls were invited to interview.

The cohort has representation from students near and far, all with unique backgrounds and experiences. Eight non-Texas residents are part of the class, having traveled from states including Alabama, Arizona, Florida, Utah and Washington. Thirteen students hail from Texas border counties, such as Cameron, El Paso, Hidalgo, Starr and Webb. 

Meehan, himself from McAllen, TX, said he came to set an example.

“A career in dentistry allows me to make a meaningful impact on people's lives while providing the flexibility to care for my family. Additionally, I aspire to be a role model for future Latino health providers and individuals from underrepresented backgrounds.”

Lemke believes this geographical diversity enriches the school’s program.

“It brings in perspectives from across the country, which makes our students’ educational experience that much more valuable,” she said.

Demographic highlights from the Class of 2028

• 80% majored in fields such as biology and chemistry
• 59 females and 41 males
• 27 represent an ethnicity underrepresented in the dental field
• 22 average DAT score
• 3.81 overall GPA
• Majority graduated from The University of Texas at Austin, The University of Texas at San Antonio and Texas A&M University

Welcome to dentistry

“We are incredibly proud of our new class and excited about the varying talents and backgrounds they bring. Our faculty looks forward to supporting their growth and success, knowing that they will undoubtedly make significant contributions to the field of dentistry and the health and well-being of the communities they will serve,” Lemke said.

“I look forward to the journey ahead and feel so fortunate to have been placed with such a great group of peers,” McNeill added.