Getting accepted into a dental residency program is extremely competitive. In the last couple of years, with the transition to a P/F grading system (Dental Boards), who gets the competitive edge?

When I am reviewing essays, applications, live interviews,etc of applicants, looking deep into a student's motivation is important.
Good marks show us that you have focus, that you can stand up to the pressure and perform.
Why is that important? Because the specialist should be the last line of defense, so to speak. When a patient is referred to a specialist, we are the end of the line.
We must be able to problem solve under pressure, be humble at times, establish trust and credibility in the initial visit, be a professional question asker, be strong.
Amidst all the distractions in life, it shows you committed to doing whatever it took to make the grade.

After weeding out the less committed, the fun starts!

I probably could have talked about 2030 tips to think about during your interview, but here are 5 to start:

1. Know your WHY
It can be super emotional or superficial or funny or whatever...it just has to mean something to you! Your WHY will change over time! For example, my why for becoming a pediatric dentist is quite elaborate and deep and has evolved as the experiences in my life have unfolded.
On the other hand, my WHY for applying to dental school 17 years ago, was quite superficial. At 21 years old, I really followed the advice of my dad. He told me to apply to dental school because there's good money in it and it'll make for a happy life. So, at that time, I wanted to please my dad. Making lots of money meant happiness, security, safety, and respect. At that time, that was most important to me. It wasn't until I realized pediatric dentistry was my calling that my why became substantial, selfless and concrete.
Use first person when developing your why and develop a story that brings in the reader or person listening to you.

2. Do Your Research
You should know the strengths and weaknesses of the residency program and why it fits in line with your WHY. Reach out to current and past residents for additional insight. Be wary of trying to mold a program within your interests and values. If, after doing the research, you find that the program is not well suited for you, I would NOT recommend interviewing at that institution. Sooner or later, it will come back to bite you. As a bonus, be prepared to comment and/or ask questions as it relates to what you liked/disliked about the program (from your research).

3. Be Early
This one's easy. Be early and punctual to your interview. Even the most valid reason for showing up late is still an excuse in our book.

4. Smile, Posture, Hands, Shoulders
As soon as you walk into the waiting room, let the games begin. There are several nonverbal cues that you want to practice in a mirror if you aren't used to doing it naturally. Smile with confidence. Stand or sit up straight. When standing, posture your hips forward. Relax your shoulders. Keep your hands in front, lightly crossed and gentle. Practice some meditation and breathing techniques to keep you at ease as this can be a very nervous (and rightfully so) time.

5. Be Unique
Most residency programs have several hundred people apply; 30 or so will be interviewed; 2 to 6 will be offered a position via the MATCH process. Most programs are looking for a group that they think will work well together, learn together, grow together and contribute in their own unique ways. How are you unique or special? How can you utilize your strengths to bring value to their residency program?

There are plenty other tips that I could get into; such as: Be Humble, Dress for Success, Wear perfume or cologne but make it subtle, ask some questions to the interview panel or faculty at some point that shows you did your research and you want to make sure this program is a good fit for you too.

Hope this helps!

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