Personal Statement:Pharmacy 9

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Pharmacy Personal Statement

My determination to study Pharmacy developed whilst performing an experiment at college to make Aspirin. I was impressed upon realising how the small amount of active ingredient produced, was sufficient to make hundreds of tablets. I discovered that Glucose was added to a Aspirin tablet in order to make it easier to swallow. The prospect of using my practical skills to produce such vital materials is highly appealing. I am intrigued by the fact that two different medicines, which separately can be "life savers", but when given simultaneously can, have disastrous effects. I am specifically interested in drug effectiveness and find the prospect of being able to help patients with the correct administration, stimulating. Recently, I observed a patient with flu symptoms; which later, after a swab, was confirmed to be swine flu. The patients' condition improved with the correct dosage of Tami-flu.

I believe that my study of Chemistry, Mathematics and History provide me with the skills essential for undertaking a degree in Pharmacy. Chemistry with its demand for precision in addition to analytical skills and knowledge of materials provides the base for any serious approach to Pharmacy. Mathematics engages my mind in problem solving and following prescribed methods to achieve the correct outcome. I enjoy the research evaluation and interpretation skills required in History. I can fluently speak Hindi and Punjabi, which my work experience showed to be valuable in enhancing patient interaction.

Carrying out work experience in a hospital and community pharmacy highlighted the differences between them, which are often overlooked by customers. The day-to-day procedures in a community pharmacy require efficient teamwork, accuracy and communication skills, especially when advising customers. The changing role of hospital pharmacists, work as individuals within a team, advising doctors and nurses so that patients receive the appropriate medication. Gaining work experience in a hospital allowed me to witness Blood and Urine Testing in the Blood Bank and the Spectroscopy Unit. These departments allowed me to see the extensive process of providing treatment within a hospital that doesn't just stop at prescribing drugs. Observing the process of detecting diseases such as Malaria and Sickle Cell Anaemia enabled me to realise the amount of people involved in providing treatment and the variety of skills they require. I watch the news for current scientific advancements; e.g. the controversies surrounding Herceptin, used to treat breast cancer.

For two years I have been volunteering at PDSA, running the shop floor in an efficient manner, ensuring that the service provided is of a high standard. I volunteer at 'Food for Life', a charity that cooks and distributes food for homeless people within the City. My volunteer work has developed my communication skills and I have found that having direct contact with the most susceptible members of our society is character building. I participate in swimming and have achieved an orange belt in karate. I attend the gym to maintain a healthy lifestyle. My Bronze Duke of Edinburgh's Award was testing as I sustained injuries but determination allowed me to proceed into Gold Level. As a mentor, I am required to support and advise students who may have problems, whilst assisting the staff in solving those problems. Recently, I have joined George, ASDA, as a shop floor assistant to further my experience.

Pharmacy allows an inquisitive and open-minded person to flourish. For me, the appeal and excitement lies in how Pharmacy is ever expanding and constantly changing. Working within various departments in a hospital during work-experience, displayed how Pharmacists are at the pinnacle of providing primary care and treatment. Drugs save lives every minute; yet with the number of people with illnesses rising, a whole new world of challenges for the future generation is opened; a challenge which I am ready to face.

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