After a Wednesday filled with photographs, computer synchronizing and mask fitting, the DDS Class of 2025 and DH Class of 2023 got better acquainted on Thursday and received a wealth of vital information.

The School of Dentistry’s new dean, Steven E. Haas, D.M.D, L.L.B., M.B.A., greeted the classes, as did Dr. Liz Kaz, associate dean for Academic Affairs, and Professor Tanya Mitchell, chair of the Division of Dental Hygiene and Richie Bigham, assistant dean for Student Programs.

Several information sessions followed on topics including curriculum, student services, building safety, school policies, opportunities to participate in student clubs and organizations, “learning how to learn” and handling their finances.

As the students got to know one another better, some talked about how relieved they had been last school year when they learned they had been accepted. A few other students mentioned that they had bypassed those anxious moments by using the school’s RAP — Reserved Admissions Program.

The DDS and DH programs have reserved admissions, which allow top Missouri and Kansas residents, to apply for a reserved seat in a future DDS class while they are in their sophomore year of college, or to apply for a future DH spot when they are high school seniors. Accepted students must meet criteria for academics and service and then can bypass the tradition admissions process.

“I grew up in Overland Park and have been talking to the dental school about the RAP program since high school,” said Michael Gimotty III. “That definitely took out a lot of stress from this whole process and made everything much simpler.”

Gimotty, who got his undergraduate degree in finance from Oral Roberts University, said he chose dentistry “because I really want to be able to help people in a practical way and bring them healing,” and UMKC because of its solid clinical base. “I see dentistry as one of the best ways to do this and am excited to be able to use these skills in the future.”

Among the new DH students, Kansas City native Shairry Lene admitted being “super nervous” to start school but said being admitted through the DH Reserved Admissions Program “took a huge weight off my shoulders since this program is so competitive! I had to keep up with grades, shadowing, and volunteering to continue in the program.”

She added: “What drew me to dental hygiene was the flexibility and being able to help others. However, I am starting to realize how I also want to be an advocate for this field and share the importance of hygiene, which so many know little about.”

Orientation will conclude Friday with faculty panels, a joint presentation on the school’s culture of diversity and respect, and information on wider UMKC resources such as libraries and counseling services.

Photos here.