Why i want to commit to the dynamic profession

My fascination in the human body began from a young age as being born with Exotropia Strabismus, resulted in countless visits to the ophthalmologist. I not only learnt the causes and treatments of my eyes but also discovered several other forms of anatomical diseases relating to them and other parts of the body. The confidence boost I received following two surgeries, acted as a catalyst spurring my interest into science further. In order to solidify this keen interest, I undertook work experience in various healthcare facilities, one of which was in a lab where I shadowed a doctor. I was particularly drawn to, and worked closely on an experiment to find the causes of pre-term birth. We conducted this experiment on the remains of the uteri of women that had conceived via a c-section where through the use of proteomics we were able to identify any recurring patterns, which aided me to develop key skills such as patience and resilience from the need of numerous experiments.

Alongside discovering the significance of analytical and statistical skills, I was able to improve my communication skills, by delivering a short presentation on the discoveries from that experiment parallel to the doctor I shadowed, to a panel of scientists and doctors. To gain a deeper insight into the lives of doctors, I observed a doctor in the gynaecology department. I was amazed at how the doctor prioritized her patient’s needs and was able to provide a just treatment to each regardless of their culture, beliefs and morals. Additionally, during scans, the doctor constantly notified the patient of the steps she will be taking beforehand and continued explaining her observations to the patient in a calm and understanding manner. This experience was a visual demonstration of the 3 requirements of a successful doctor which I read about in ‘ Better’. The author states the 3 requirements: To do right, ingenuity, diligence and in turn addresses specific problems in each.

The author tackles a number of challenging issues under ‘ to do right’ including the difficulties associated with rectifying the harm that may be caused inevitably from healthcare which mirrored a specific case I witnessed in the hospital where a patient recently had an ultrasound but was allergic to the latex. Whilst shadowing a pharmacist at a local pharmacy, I was able to develop my management skills as pharmacists are responsible for supervising technicians and dispensers, and keeping accountable records which is extremely important in medicine as doctors have to immediately update patient notes and records of drugs prescribed. I also volunteer every weekend at a Youth and Sports board for the last 3 years where I’m currently the vice chair of the committee. Taking on this responsibility as a team leader has enabled me to develop my teamwork and time management skills and act as a role model to them.

I was able to demonstrate these skills during Duke of Edinburgh Silver Award expedition in which teamwork was crucial. I worked as a maths and science tutor where I tutored KS1 and GCSE students. One of the key roles I had to portray as a tutor is Identifying the strengths and weaknesses of students and working with them over a long period of time to improve. This shadows the role of a healthcare practitioner as being part of the patient’s journey and observing the progress they are making is extremely vital. I am part of a dance academy and I also swim at stage 8.

I enjoy playing sports and have played netball in the European sports Festival and won 3rd place. I participated in Jack Petchy’s Speak Out Challenge for which I won the regional finalist award. These activities have helped me to relax and are a stress buster. My experiences have enabled me to commit to the dynamic profession of medicine and have prepared me for the hurdles faced when studying medicine. I have seen how difficult it is to become a doctor and I am willing to commit to the demands of this noble profession.