My Potential and Motivation to Excel in The Field of Medicine

Who could have imagined that killing could be a form of healing? In the complex realm of medicine, the only way to treat a severe aneurysm at a critical juncture in the brain is through a procedure that induces hypothermia, effectively stopping the heart and rendering the patient clinically dead. Yet, this very process utilizes the protective properties of hypothermia to safeguard the brain, ultimately saving the patient. Such paradoxes in medicine continually intrigue me, fueling my desire to delve deeper into the transformative power of this field.

My Journey into Medicine

This year, I had the privilege of shadowing Dr. Miriam Kimpo at her pediatric oncology clinic at National University Hospital, where I was introduced to Knudson’s two-hit hypothesis. This theory was particularly relevant in a case involving both a mother and her son, both battling retinoblastoma. I observed Dr. Kimpo as she guided cancer patients through their treatment options, explaining chemotherapy and radiation therapies, and conducting echocardiograms to check for cardiac issues. It became clear to me that being a doctor is not only intellectually rewarding but also demands critical thinking and decisive action.

Dr. Kimpo's ability to listen attentively to her patients and her patience in addressing their concerns about potential treatment side effects highlighted the importance of soft skills in medicine. It is essential to communicate complex medical information in a way that patients can easily understand. I applied these interpersonal skills while leading a Biology Interest Group, where we organized a masterclass on mealworms for Primary 6 students, serving as both planner and lecturer.

Realities of Clinical Practice

During my time in the Children’s Emergency department, I encountered a boy preparing for his O-level exams who was diagnosed with Hidradenitis Suppurativa. His pain severely limited his ability to write, illustrating the deep trust patients place in their doctors during critical moments. However, my experience also exposed me to the harsh realities of medical practice. I witnessed a doctor misdiagnose a child with bacterial pneumonia when it was, in fact, viral pneumonia. This error, leading to the incorrect administration of Levofloxacin, resulted in severe reprimands from a senior resident. Such incidents underscored the immense pressure doctors face to maintain error-free records, particularly given the long hours they work, sometimes up to 36 hours straight. Despite these challenges, the profound sense of fulfillment derived from helping patients is what drives many healthcare professionals to persevere.

Engagement in Medical Research

In addition to my clinical experiences, I am eager to explore the realm of clinical research. To broaden my exposure, I have spent two years conducting research at Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School, focusing on RAC isoforms and ICMT. This experience has allowed me to apply for grants, with a potential publication on the horizon. I have learned to critique and draw inspiration from research papers while utilizing Huygens Professional for data analysis, ensuring I stay informed about the latest advancements in RAC isoforms and imaging standards. My lab skills have flourished as I performed techniques such as western blotting and cloning multiple times. Weekly progress meetings with Professor Mei-Wang have emphasized the importance of effective communication in conveying my scientific findings.

Curiosity and Lifelong Learning

Thanks to my supportive parents and teachers, I have developed a spirit of inquiry and a desire for self-sufficiency. I often seek to understand the fundamental principles behind various scientific concepts. The National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) has been an invaluable resource for accessing enlightening research papers. One of my favorites is a Nature literature review titled “Protein prenylation: unique fats make their mark on biology,” which discusses CAAX protein prenylation and its implications for cancer. This kind of research not only deepens my knowledge but also fuels my passion for discovering how science can address real-world problems.

The Human Element in Medicine

My experiences in medicine have also reinforced my desire for an altruistic career. During my year of volunteering at Ng Teng Fong Hospital, I encountered a patient suffering from liver cirrhosis whose confusion stemmed from toxins affecting his brain. Despite his aggressive behavior, I empathized with his psychological distress. In contrast, another patient with Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis had no visitors; he shared that his son blamed him for his wife's death, resulting in estrangement. Engaging him in conversations about food, such as the famous Indian Roti from a nearby eatery, provided him with a moment of joy and highlighted the crucial role of emotional support in patient care.

Balancing Arts and Sciences

Beyond academics, I have a deep appreciation for the arts, particularly music. Preparing for the prestigious Singapore Youth Festival required my Chinese Orchestra team to practice until 9 PM for months. Despite being a smaller group of 25 members compared to competitors with nearly 100, our unwavering morale, teamwork, and resilience enabled us to achieve our best school record in the past five years.

Conclusion

The path to becoming a doctor is fraught with challenges, including long hours and the weighty responsibility of ensuring accurate medical treatment while navigating ethical dilemmas. Nevertheless, I believe this altruistic career will motivate me to continuously improve in an ever-evolving medical landscape. It offers the privilege of utilizing my medical knowledge to help patients regain their health and fosters meaningful connections with individuals from diverse backgrounds. I am confident that I possess the drive, emotional maturity, and academic potential to excel in this lifelong journey.

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