USC University of Southern California School of Dentistry 6th Annual Dental Explorers Program (DEP), a.k.a. Dental Camp July 28 – August 8, 2008 The University of Southern California, School of Dentistry announces its 6th Annual Dental Explorers Program (DEP), a.k.a. Dental Camp, summer 2008.  In addition to the School of Dentistry, the DEP is supported in part by grants from the California Endowment and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.  The goal of this program is to assist in the development of a diverse pool of future professionals by introducing talented students, especially those from historically underrepresented, low income and/or disadvantaged backgrounds to the dental profession. The “two week” program offers an exciting learning opportunity for exceptional and motivated college bound high school students with a parallel core offering for currently enrolled college students.  The curriculum includes team building exercises, clinic shadowing experiences, a variety of hands-on clinical exercises, lectures on oral cancer and other topical issues.   All participants are expected to attend all sessions of the program and keep a daily journal of activities.   A luncheon reception for participants and their parent(s) or guardian(s) will be held on the final day of the program.     There is no fee for the program and no stipend is provided.  Participants are required to provide their own lodging, transportation and cover any parking fees and other personal costs.  A $5.00 lunch voucher, accepted only at on-campus dining venues will be provided daily. Because the School of Dentistry is a health care facility, all faculty, staff and students (including summer students) are required to agree and adhere to the school’s dress and behavior standards.  These standards require a professional appearance and demeanor at all times.  Non-complying participants will be dismissed from the program.  Specific information regarding these standards will be provided upon acceptance.  The program will begin on Monday, July 28 and end on Friday, August 8, 2008 (Monday through Friday only).  The program will run from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily.  Enrollment is strictly limited and the deadline for application is June 13, 2008. Please email, fax, or mail applications to Ashley Etherton (see contact info below).  CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD A COPY OF THE APPLICATION Phone Interview Process: College students considered highly for a position in the program must go through a phone interview appointment.  A phone interview is not required for high school students.  Phone interviews will be conducted within a week following the application deadline.   Letter of Recommendation: At least one letter of recommendation from a teacher/professor or advisor/counselor is highly recommended, but not required. The letter must mention why they feel you would be an ideal student for this program.  The recommendation can also focus on your academic performance, leadership qualities, and special skills and talents.  It’s best to have the letter enclosed in a sealed envelope with the application.  Please send all applications, letters of recommendations, questions, or other general inquiries to: University of Southern California School of Dentistry Attn: Dental Explorers Program 925 W. 34th St Room 201 Los Angeles, CA 90089-0641 Ashley Etherton (213) 740-2851 Fax (213) 740-8109 Email: etherton@usc.edu Thank you for your interest in the USC School of Dentistry DEP.