My Interest in a Degree in Cell and Molecular Biology at Tulane University

I am very passionate about pursuing a career in primary care or emergency medicine because I want to help every person I can regardless of background, money or stigma. I believe that a graduate degree from Tulane University will help me reach that goal. Supplemental fact is that attaining Master’s degree in Cell and Molecular Biology would strengthen my credentials for medical school by expanding my knowledge in Biology while also enhancing my communication skills. There are two main experiences that I feel have prepared me for Tulane’s rigorous Cell and Molecular Biology program. I became interested in biology after learning that the cell is the smallest unit of life, it is the structural basis for the whole living organism. This initial interest was further propelled after researching E. coli at Dr. Schlutcher’s lab. There, I learned basic research techniques such as DNA cloning and sequencing, polymerase chain reaction, electrophoresis, and numerous other research techniques. Scientific research fascinates me primarily because experiments raise many questions and always create new challenges.

Additionally, while completing my senior year at University of New Orleans, I was presented with the opportunity to assist with research in LSU’s pharmacology department. During the period I worked in the department I was able to put my interest into practice. I explored mouse anatomy and physiology through various dissections of the mouse brain and pancreas. I was also actively involved in clinical trials studying the effect of a new drug on the mouse renin-angiotensin system. This experience helped me understand the connection between health science and research. Master’s degree from Tulane would be the ideal pathway towards fulfilling my goal of becoming a physician. The courses such as Gross Anatomy and Physiology would give me an advantage throughout medical school and subsequent clinical experiences. Additionally, the required formal presentations throughout the program offer an outstanding opportunity to master my oral presentation skills while researching health related topics. Education has always been a cornerstone of who I am. I never understood how my culture and background were different from everyone else’s until I moved to United States to pursue higher education at the age of fifteen. Before pursuing education, I was just another child from Vietnam’s suburban wildness in which common household features such as existence of stairs within a house were thought of as decadent luxuries representative of incredible wealthy. In the course of this major change, I learned that the secret to successfully achieving a goal is being resilient, self-motivated, and discipline.

During this time, I got more involved with various leadership programs at my school and not only found the community I wanted, but also become more independent and creative. I even got to be an orientation leader and an ambassador. I have learned to step outside my comfort zone, and I have learned that diversity is so much more than the tint of one’s skin color. Residing in this great country has provided me with diversity, opportunity, acceptance, and an abundance of role models to emulate and follow during difficulties. It is remarkable how my attitude and mind-set have been ultimately impacted and molded based on the source of my education. I see Tulane University as a part of my future based on the rigorous methods the university uses to teach students preparing for challenging career fields, and I feel that the curriculum offered by Tulane University is a perfect match for my career goal. I would be an asset to your college because I will take advantage of every opportunity available to me while contributing as much as I can to your institution. Should I attain the exceptionally quality pre-professional education Tulane has to offer, I will make the most of it during my career. If provided with the opportunity to attain a unique education from an engaging school such as Tulane University, I have no doubt that both my communication skills and biology background will flourish, equipping me with the strategies and tools necessary to succeed in medical school and reach my dream of becoming a physician.

There are two main reasons as to why I wish to pursue a graduate degree at the Tulane University in a Health Related field, specifically Primary Care or Emergency Medicine. These reasons are an opportunity to make a difference and to impact the society in a positive way (through sharing knowledge) and save lives.