The Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine (BUGSDM) is a private dental school established in 1958. BUGSDM is part of Boston University, basing its curriculum on the Applied Experience Program that incorporates practical experience into its student training methodology. Additionally, BUGSDM was the only institution in the United States to provide postdoctoral education in dentistry when first established. Being part of this prestigious school is essential to any dental student's progress, opening doors to multiple opportunities upon graduation. However, students must also be aware of the school's dismissal policies, as expulsion or temporary dismissal from BUGSDM leads to severe consequences in the future.
Dental school dismissals can happen for various reasons, including poor academic progress, failure to meet clinical standards, breaching professional conduct expectations, or failure to uphold ethical principles. Permanent dismissal from BUGSDM imposes significant consequences on your academic and career trajectory in the short and long term. However, addressing the situation alone is unlikely to yield positive results. If you are facing expulsion from BUGSDM, it is crucial to take all possible measures to prevent it from adversely affecting your prospects. For better results, you need the assistance of Attorney-Advisor Joseph D. Lento and the Lento Law Firm Education Law Team.
Common Reasons for Dismissal
Dental school comes with a long list of expectations regarding student behavior. Although it is a place of learning, some mistakes or circumstances are too severe to overlook. As a student, you must maintain high professionalism, academic performance, and ethical conduct to avoid allegations. Poor academic progress is one of the most common causes of dismissal. You must maintain a high level of academic performance, improve, and keep up with your peers to progress.
Failure to meet clinical standards is another reason for dismissal. You must demonstrate your ability to apply your knowledge correctly and safely in a practical setting. Breaching professional conduct standards, such as cheating or plagiarism, can also result in dismissal. Finally, violating ethical guidelines, such as not being stringent about patient confidentiality or informed consent, is also a serious violation that can lead to suspension or expulsion.
Adjudication Process at BUGSDM
The Policy and Procedure page on BUGSDM has a comprehensive overview of the dental school's rules and policies regarding the adjudication process. Two processes exist depending on whether a student committed a first or second offense. For the first offense:
- The instructor gathers evidence of the alleged actin ad discusses it with a course director.
- They invite the student to discuss the allegations to determine whether it is necessary to submit an academic misconduct report and send the information to the Assistant Dean for Academic Affairs (ADAA).
- The latter reviews the student's record to determine if previous instances occurred.
- The ADAA meets with the instructor to discuss a resolution and relay their findings and recommendations to the student.
- A hearing takes place if the student disagrees with the findings and will not sign the form.
The procedure is similar for a second offense. Still, it differs in that a hearing occurs regardless, as the second violation may lead to dismissal or expulsion.
Appeals Process
Fortunately, even if a committee recommends suspension or expulsion from BUGSDM, you still have the right to appeal since this decision drastically affects your future. As per the policy, you can appeal Promotions Committee recommendations by sending a written letter to the Dean within 14 days of receiving the notice for an academic sanction or corrective action. The Dean reviews your case and may request additional information to make a proper decision. After the review, the Dean may uphold, overturn, or modify the original recommendation.
If you disagree with the decision, you can appeal to the Provost of Boston University Medical Campus within 14 business days. The Provost will take all necessary actions to ensure they have enough information regarding the case and notify you of their decision. Remember that this decision is final, and there are no further levels of appeal after review by the Provost.
Contacting a Student Defense Attorney-Advisor
Dental school is a time of learning, understanding boundaries, and exploring the new career you will embark on once you graduate. Your professors know you will make mistakes and learn from them as part of becoming a dentist. However, some errors may be more severe than others and could result in dismissal or expulsion from BUGSDM. These include poor academic performance, professional or ethical violations, behavioral issues, and misconduct. When faced with such a situation, it's essential to seek the help of Attorney-Advisor Joseph D. Lento and the Lento Law Firm Education Law Team.
Attorney-Advisor Lento has years of experience working with dental school students nationwide. Along with the Lento Law Firm Education Team, he works hard to seek justice and ensure you receive professional representation to decrease the likelihood of a dismissal or expulsion. The Lento Law Firm Education Team gathers evidence, speaks to witnesses, and identifies the best strategies to strengthen your defense during and after a hearing. They work to help ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive fair treatment during the hearing process. Working with a skilled and dedicated team gives you the proper guidance and support during the hectic and stressful hearing and appeals processes.
Additionally, Attorney-Advisor Lento and the Lento Law Firm Education Team may negotiate a less severe punishment, such as a suspension rather than expulsion. The latter can have significant long-term consequences on your academic and career trajectory. Working with them increases your chances of achieving a more favorable outcome and avoiding the harsh effects of dismissal or suspension.
If you or someone you love face dismissal or expulsion from BUGSDM, don't wait. Seeking the help of Attorney Advisor Lento and The Lento Law Firm Education Law Team can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Call the Lento Law Firm today at 888-535-3686 for more information about how to approach your issue.
