The School of Dental Medicine is accepting applications for the second cohort of students for the Destination Dental School program, an initiative that aims to remove barriers to careers in dentistry for underrepresented and disadvantaged students.

The free, eight-week summer program, which is open to underrepresented or disadvantaged undergraduate and post-baccalaureate students nationwide, provides participants with an understanding of the day-to-day life of a dentist and dental student, helps strengthen their dental school applications, and develops their skills as researchers.

Participants receive a stipend to cover travel expenses, study resources and reimbursement for the Dental Admissions Test (DAT), and a waived application fee to the UB School of Dental Medicine.

The deadline for applications is March 31. Decisions will be communicated to applicants by April 15. Interested students are encouraged to apply online on the Destination Dental School website.

The hybrid program will take place virtually each Saturday throughout June and July, as well as include a three-day, in-person, intensive training session from July 25-27.

The previous cohort of 24 students drew participants from 14 states, stretching from New York to Florida to California.

The program will provide hands-on simulations that teach tooth anatomy and the process for placing fillings and taking impressions; presentations that explore the various disciplines within dental medicine; networking opportunities with local dental leaders; dental school application assistance that includes weekly guidance from more than 30 UB dental faculty, staff, students and alumni; and preparation for the DAT — a standardized exam required for entry into dental school. Participants will also complete a capstone research project.