Texas Tech University

Madison Keller

Woman wearing graduation cap and gown with quote and UCC logo

I had been coming to the UCC for the past three years to work on personal statements for my dental school application as well as my resume. Donna Srader was an absolute blessing during those years and I believe that I owe much of my success to her! She helped transform my personal statements to a works of art, which I have gotten many compliments on during dental school interviews. During my transition year between my master's program and dental school, Donna also reviewed my professional resume which helped me easily find a great job as a biochemist in the oil and gas industry. I was able to attain a great job in my transition year that allowed me to have a great back up plan if I didn't get into dental school. Luckily, I got into A.T. Still Dental School!

A big factor that I have found in my success was finding my passion and sticking with it. I have been preparing my entire life for dental school. Also, you never know when the next chapter in your life will happen. Everybody should always be prepared to make their next career step, not just students. One thing I learned is that it's not about what you know, but who you know. Start making connections, attaining internships, getting into undergraduate research, or other organizations that will help you along the way. My final advice for students is don't lose hope and keep your perseverance alive. Always improve yourself educational-wise or admissions-testing-wise, I had to get my Master's degree and take my DAT four times.