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Personal Statement:Medicine 79TSR Wiki > University > Applying to University > Personal Statement Library > Medicine 79
Medicine Personal StatementI realised that I wanted to be a doctor just before my sixteenth birthday when I spent a week in hospital as a patient, coming into contact with a wide range of medical professionals as they sought to diagnose my condition. I saw how doctors used their knowledge and skills in diagnosis and treatment, and felt this must be hugely rewarding. This firsthand experience made me realise that medicine would fulfil everything I was looking for in a career, being science based, involving interaction with people and having the satisfaction of being able to make a difference to them. In order to gain some insight into what entering the medical profession might entail, I obtained as much work experience as possible. This included a week at a GP Surgery, where I sat in on consultations and clinics. I particularly enjoyed accompanying one of the doctors on a home visit to an elderly patient which she did in her own time, underlining the level of dedication and caring needed, and which was rewarded by the genuine gratitude of the patient. In addition to observing the daily workings of the surgery I gained an appreciation of the importance of the honesty and trust required to build a good relationship between doctor and patient. I then helped for a week on the day care unit of the local Hospice where, as well as being involved with therapy sessions, I spent time just talking to the patients. This gave me confidence that I would be able cope with difficult situations and made me realise that being a doctor is not necessarily about curing people but trying to give them the best quality of life possible. Following my work experience I still volunteer there once a week. I spent a week in a hospital maternity unit where the majority of my time was with the midwives. It gave me an understanding of the routine of a hospital ward and the role of other hospital staff in patient care. The importance of teamwork was reinforced on a Taste of Medicine course organised by Manchester Hospitals, where I had the opportunity to spend time in several different areas, the most interesting being the Eye Hospital where I observed cataract operations. Seeing the skill and precision required was especially fascinating. A large proportion of time was spent with third year medical students, who gave a realistic view of studying medicine and university life. I found it interesting to see the effect of social factors on the health and attitude to healthcare of patients. I chose to take a gap year to help finance my studies and am currently employed as a Healthcare Assistant on the Nurse Bank at my local hospital, helping me gain more valuable work experience and knowledge of the Healthcare system. Prior to this I worked for two years in a children’s shoe shop, where coming into contact with people of all ages and backgrounds enabled me to improve my communication skills, a vital attribute for a doctor who needs to be able to relate to patients and colleagues at all levels. I enjoy listening to music and reading, but my main leisure activity is sport, and as a member of Sale Harriers I have taken part in competitions all over the UK, including representing my county several times in national high jump events. I have been involved in coaching at Startrack, a holiday athletics programme for young people, and at my local athletics club. I also play netball and was captain of the school team. These roles have further increased my leadership and inter personal skills and ability to use my own initiative as well as work as part of a team, essential qualities for a successful doctor. I am looking forward to continuing with my sporting activities at university. I feel that it is vital to maintain a balance between studies, work, hobbies and social life. I am confident that I have the motivation, commitment and strength of character to be successful and overcome any challenges I may encounter throughout my training and career, and be a credit to the medical profession. Universities Applied to:
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