Erik Blomquist '14
Name: Erik Blomquist
Graduating Class: 2014
Major: Chemistry
Your Story:
My name is Erik Blomquist, and I’m a senior chemistry major from Onalaska, WI. I chose Gustavus because I wanted a high-quality education in a small-school environment, and Gustavus offered me a four-year piano scholarship. Another reason I chose Gustavus was the opportunity to be on the varsity swim team, which I would not have been able to do at the other schools I applied to. My interest in dentistry started when I was in high school trying to figure out what career path was most suitable for me. My mom (who is a dentist) suggested that I shadow in a dental office, so I did and I absolutely loved it! Then I started working in my mom’s dental office, doing more shadowing, and volunteering at dental service events. My most influential experience in my pre-dental journey has been volunteering at the Wisconsin Dental Association Mission of Mercy event, where hundreds of dentists donate care to people in need who don’t have regular access to dental care.
Class Schedule (Click to view PDF)
Top Five Activities/Experiences:
Competing for the Gustavus Men’s Swimming & Diving Team for 4 years
Riding/training/showing my horses and competing at the national level
Studying abroad in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in Summer 2013
Studying piano in college: taking lessons and performing in recitals
Preparing for and performing my Senior Piano Recital in November 2013
Advice:
1. Dedication to academic success is essential when you plan to apply for dental school. A competitive GPA is one of the main things that will get your application considered!
2. That being said, it is important to be well-rounded and maintain a healthy balance in your academic and extracurricular/social life! Commit to the activities and hobbies that you are passionate about.
3. While it is important to get shadowing hours and experience in the health field, that shouldn’t be your whole pre-dental life! Make time for you, make time for your friends, and make time for doing what you love to do!
Future Plans:
Entering University of Iowa College of Dentistry, Fall 2014.
Updated 7/3/2014 HB