getting the real values in the excel file

I have a module wherein you have to upload an excel file, after a succesful upload.  I will get the value for every column using this script

Dim FIRM1_DATE = myDataset.Tables(0).Rows(0).ItemArray(3).ToString()

the problem is for example the value is a date "9/21/2008" and it is formatted to month & day only, ex. "9/21".

 my question is how can I get the real value from it "9/21/2008" & not the formatted one? 
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