If dentistry didn't exist, what would you do instead?

What's underneath the choice. The answer often reveals your real motivation more honestly than 'why dentistry' does.

How to structure your answer

1Name the alternative
2The thread it shares with dentistry
3Back to why dentistry captures it best

Pick something you'd genuinely enjoy, not a strategic answer
Identify the common thread explicitly
Use it to reinforce rather than undercut your commitment

A strong answer

What lands

If dentistry weren’t an option, I would likely become a dermatology physician assistant. Dermatology appeals to me for many of the same reasons as dentistry: it combines aesthetics, function, and hands-on patient care. Dentistry is more procedure-focused than dermatology, which really appeals to me and is one of the reasons dentistry is a better fit for me.

Names a real second choice, says what the two have in common, and uses the difference to explain the first choice.

A weak answer

What most people say

That's a tough one. Honestly, I can't really picture doing anything else. Dentistry is the only thing I've seriously considered, and everything I've done for the last four years has been pointed at it. I guess if I absolutely had to pick something, maybe teaching or research, but it wouldn't be the same thing at all.

Sounds devout, dodges the question, and tells her nothing about him.

The trap

⚠Refusing to engage — 'I can't imagine doing anything else' sounds devout but dodges the question. They asked a hypothetical; answer it.

Reading it isn't the same as saying it.

Most people can explain a good answer and still fall apart saying one out loud. Admitted asks you all 100 questions in a faculty voice, records you, and scores your pace and filler words.

Try one interview free Get the guide