Welcome
The UCSD Pre-Dental Society (UCSD PDS) is a student organization that promotes student interest in the field of dentistry. Our goals are to give members a hands-on experience with dentists and getting members into dental school. Activities organized by the UCSD PDS include presentations by dental school administrators and local dental professionals, trips to dental schools and conferences, and outreach volunteering experiences.
Perhaps, the most unique quality of the PDS is the UCSD Student-Run Free Dental Clinic Project.
- Announcements
- Humanitarian Mission
- About Us
On February 12, 2011, The UC San Diego Pre-Dental Society partnered with the Dental Health Initiative and the San Diego County Dental Society for Give Kids a Smile Day. About 400 free screenings, varnish, and sealants were provided to children.
For 2011, the San Diego Dental Health Foundation is offering scholarships to senior students currently attending a San Diego college and planning to attend dental school following graduation. A total of up to $3,000 will be awarded, in amounts to be determined after applications are reviewed. Applicants must already have received acceptance from the dental school they plan to attend. Applications should be returned to: San Diego Dental Health Foundation, 1275 W. Morena Blvd., Ste. B, San Diego, CA 92110-3837, by March 25, 2011. The winner will be invited to attend a dental symposium and dinner in May for a formal presentation. Please email Cuong Nguyen at bcnguyen24@gmail.com for an application.
Pacific Partnership 2012 (USNS Mercy)
This summer, the UCSD Pre-Dental Society will have the opportunity to participate in a unique partnership with the U.S. Navy throughout the Southeast Asia and Oceania region. Pacific Partnership 2012 marks the UCSD Pre-Dental Society's 9th mission with the U.S. Navy. The Pacific Partnership works in concert with partner nations, non-governmental organizations and other U.S. governmental agencies to provide humanitarian civic assistance and to build relationships that will be called upon in cases of natural disasters. Departing from San Diego, CA in early June, the USNS Mercy will be deployed for five months to provide care to underserved communities in Indonesia, the Philippines, Cambodia, and Vietnam.
"This was an incredible and gratifying experience. I am glad to have been part of a team that has committed to strengthening cross-cultural relationships and providing health care to some the most unprivileged people. This mission has not only given me a greater perspective on the importance of health care, but also the need to embrace different cultures and people around the world" - Tiki Le (USNS Mercy 2008)
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UCSD Student-Run Free Dental Clinic Project was founded in 1999
Operates 3 dental clinics in San Diego that provide free dental services.
* Manage and staff by undergraduate students
Provides health professionals & students opportunities to volunteer in foreign countries.
* Mexico with the Thousands Smile Foundation and NorCal Project
* Asia, Pacific & Oceania Islands, Caribbean, Central & South America with the U.S. Navy on humanitarian missions
Received 2 American Dental Association Golden Apple Awards
Numerous national, state, and county awards and recognitions