Personal Statement:Medicine 40

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Medicine Personal Statement

I am passionate about studying medicine and I am drawn to what I perceive to be a physically, psychologically and intellectually challenging degree. Having a sister with Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia, I have seen the frail side of the human body and the recovery and defence processes aided by medical professionals. I have also developed an immense enthusiasm for such genetic and respiratory disorders and have undertaken substantial individual research into these conditions.

A University Summer School and extensive work experiences reaffirmed and enhanced my desire to study medicine as well as providing real insight into the wide spectrum of the profession. Working in a pharmacy gave me valuable experience in communication and highlighted the importance of dispensing accurate prescriptions. A placement in a GP surgery emphasised the importance of GP’s as the first point of provision of primary care and also as the final point through follow-ups and regular checks. I also learnt the importance of listening with empathy and patient reassurance. While shadowing paediatric health professionals in a hospital I saw medicine from a different viewpoint. I observed ward rounds and assessment where treatment plans were explained and concerns dealt with meaning that doctors treat the whole patient, not just the medical condition. I spent most of my time with the neonatal team responsible for premature babies. As respiratology is one of my interests, it was captivating to see the specialty in a more complex light than afforded by my biology course. For example, I was able to understand the importance of surfactants and why they should be given in accurate doses. Throughout the week I expanded my confidence and communication skills through speaking to patients and doctors. I was able to see how all health professionals interact with each other to provide the best possible care. I have also arranged another placement to have a further insight into other departments. I am a volunteer in The **** ***** Home for the disabled. This has taught me how to consider the needs of disabled people through getting involved with their direct care and communication. It has also made me realise the importance of palliative care. I have attended courses in first aid, and health & safety which enabled me to attend local events as an emergency first aider and as a steward.

Despite the demands of my academic studies, I have completed over 100 hours of volunteering through the Millennium Volunteers scheme. Volunteering at BAWSO women’s aid has taught me how to empathise and help troubled women especially through working on the 24-hour help line. I am a member at the Link Up program with the Welsh Assembly. This has developed my sense of responsibility, teamwork, organisation and confidence. Being a Blaze guard has enhanced my responsibility skills further by acting as a role model in school and in my community and raising awareness about arson. Helping in the local playgroup and being a reading buddy has taught me how to deal with children of different ages. These experiences made me appreciate that each person is different, and the importance of treating them as an individual.

Having lived in three different countries, I have been able to experience, adapt to and respect diverse cultures and practices. While living in Sudan, I was able to observe doctors working under third world conditions. I witnessed tropical diseases at first hand along with some infections uncommon to the UK such as Malaria and Cholera and their treatments. I was inspired to have an input in reducing deaths from preventable causes through a medical career.

I am firmly committed to medicine and strongly believe that I possess the necessary dedication, enthusiasm and curiosity for this dynamic profession with a firm sense of purpose and vocation. Far from being discouraged by the seriousness of this career, I will strive to make every success, given the opportunity.

Universities applied to:

• St George's University of London- offer AABb (Firm)
• Cardiff University- offer AABc (insurance)
• Queen May, University of London- offer AAB
• Oxford University- rejected without interview

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