Study Biology: Personal Purpose, Academic Background and Goals

For me, what interests me most about biology are the possible developments in genetic engineering and stem cell treatments. Genetic engineering is an area of research that I am curious to learn more about. So this is an essay about biology where I will explaine personal purpose of studying it, my academic backgroud and future goals. 

By studying genetics at a-level, I looked into the use of stem cells and I was surprised at how many treatments they can be used for. This taught me about the significant influence that stem cell treatments can have on an individual such as; the use of a hematopoietic stem cell transplant that treats types of cancers like leukaemia. The possible life-saving impacts that biology can have is why I want to study biology at university level, as I am keen to expand my knowledge further and contribute to the ever-adapting research in the future - that is the main reason for my passion what I want to mention in this biological essay. 

Intrigued by what I learned about biology at a-level, I went on to read ‘Creation’ by Adam Rutherford in order to dive deeper into the genetics and evolution topic. I found this book extremely interesting as it gave me insight into the many different theories about how life began on earth such as Luca (the last universal cellular ancestor) and how there is many different possibilities for life to be used in the future. A certain section about spider silk fascinated me as many scientists are looking to manufacture it on large scales because it is one of the strongest materials found in nature- this led to the creation of a genetically engineered goat who produces spider silk in its milk. This led me to research further, where I discovered that there are also genetically modified bacteria being used to produce amyloid silk hybrid proteins. I was amazed that science has allowed us to do this and potentially create a material which can have a huge impact on people’s lives - especially in the public health sector as it can be used for many purposes like organ scaffolds, bullet proof skin and making artificial ligamentstendons.

To continue the biology essay, my further  understanding of biology was outside of school when I have visited museums such as the science museum and Natural History museum in order to access more educational information and engage in more learning. Additionally, to consolidate my learning around my A-level courses, I have enrolled in and completed multiple online courses. The topics I chose to complete were; cell signalling, influenza: a case study and monitoring volcanoes and magma movements (for geography). I specifically chose these courses to give me a wider understanding of topics I find challenging as well as intriguing in the A-level content. One section particularly on the influenza: a case study course I found interesting was how the influenza RNA polymerase cannot recognizerepair errors in genome replication which leads to an accumulation of random genetic changes. This course helped me to understand viruses as it explained how they become resistant to drugs and the importance of developing new treatments to use against these viruses. I personally think the constant development of medications is a vital part of treatment for resistant strands of disease, and I look forward to learning more as I progress in my studies.

My interest in immunology from studying it at school led me to undertake work experience in a local pharmacy. During this work experience, I was able to learn about many different medicines and understand what they are used for, how they may interfere with each other, and which medications must be strictly regulated. I was able to ask questions to the pharmacist about the different types of drugs and their effectsuses, allowing me to gain more knowledge in pharmacology and biochemistry. I believe this gave me some more in depth understanding into the real-life applications of biology and how the behind-the-scenes researchdevelopment of drugs have an essential role in their public use.

Currently, I am a prefect at my school and in particular I am a part of the senior mentor prefect team. This means that on a regular basis I give academic support to students in lower year groups who are currently studying their GCSE’s. I find this extremely rewarding as it enables me to help students in the subjects I am confident with and motivate them to work to the best of their ability. I like helping these students and explaining topics in ways that are easier to understand for them and it also allows me to solidify my own knowledge on the subject. In the future I want to study at Stanford University to get my degree in biology.

To end up essay on biology, through studying biology, I strive to develop extensive knowledge in all areas of biological sciences with the aim of making a significant impact in future research and development. This, I personally deem, is what makes the study of biology a tangible dream and a step towards a career as biology is always changing and growing.