My Way to Study Medicine

I was first attracted to study medicine by the opportunity to positively impact lives through problem-solving and the application of science. As a dynamic and stimulating vocation, it will allow me to satisfy my curiosity of human physiology and the causes of ill-health. I acquired a placement with a cardiology team and observed the breadth of demands on hospital doctors. I was fascinated watching operations in the catch lab and by how the system manages both emergency and elective procedures.

Conversations with junior doctors reinforced the high demands of the job and the impact this has on personal lives. I enjoyed shadowing a GP, which showed me the broad responsibilities of primary care; from consultations to home visits. I now appreciate the diverse situations GPs deal with, their time-management skills and ability to adapt their manner and approach to healthcare. A key example was in a palliative care situation where a holistic strategy was taken to improve the quality of the patient's life. The opportunity to join presentations given by pharmaceutical representatives emphasised my interest in continual advancements in medicine.

Volunteering at a hospital increased my awareness of how many professions contribute to a patient’s journey. Experiencing the Emergency Floor in winter demonstrated the volume of patients admitted and the pressure this can cause. Through my interaction with patients, I learned what they value in the NHS service provided. I rose to the challenge of overcoming language and cultural barriers while volunteering with autistic children in Vietnam. My ability to interact with people with special needs improved and I learnt from the teachers how to maintain the children’s focus.

Working with a UK charity providing respite care for children with additional needs and limited communication demonstrated the way children adapt to use non-verbal styles, such as Makaton. In a care home for the elderly, I also experienced the communication difficulties that arise later in life through ageing and dementia and the challenge this causes for their carers, which emphasised the key issue of our ageing population. I enjoyed Atul Gawande's exploration of elderly care in ‘Being Mortal’ as it made me reflect on the priorities and challenges, particularly in terms of autonomy.

Inspired by a research topic in class I wrote an article on the benefits and issues of fortification and water chlorination which was published in Medic Mentor Magazine. This self-directed learning required effective time management and researching many technical papers. To further explore developments in the medical field I completed a MOOC on new cancer medicines and found reading medical journals on possible future treatments fascinating. I enjoy leading sports lessons and activities for younger children, some with cerebral palsy, as part of my level 3 Sports Leadership award. Through this, I have developed my communication and leadership skills, my ability to manage a range of behaviours and adapt to situations. In my roles as a peer mediator and prefect, I have supported younger students by resolving conflicts with empathy and sensitivity.

My teamwork and organisation skills were essential as a school sports captain responsible for coordinating teams from all year groups. I enjoy participating in team sports and for the past five years have regularly trained with my local athletics club. I am a keen musician, currently working towards grade 5 piano, having achieved grade 3 flute. As a waitress, I work in a pressured environment, where customer interaction is crucial, as well as responding appropriately to problems. I have found my exploration of the medical profession captivating and I am excited at the prospect of continuously learning in a career that combines my enjoyment of both science and helping patients.