Medicine Personal Statement
It could have been disastrous, but due to a doctor's swift diagnosis, I was whisked off to surgery for a ruptured appendix. The reassuring demeanour expressed by doctors during my recovery and the expert aftercare provided, made me recognise and truly appreciate, the importance of doctor-patient communication. Being able to diagnose and effectively treat patients, coupled with a personal willingness to care for and assist people, is why I wish to study medicine.
To observe medicine on a daily basis, I arranged a week of work experience at a GP surgery. One day, I noticed a back log of patients develop. Some, frustrated, would badger the staff. The calm and professional manner of the staff in dealing with difficult patients showed me the necessity of keeping a level head to ensure the practice runs smoothly. While sorting letters from consultants, I realised the complexity of the efficient network that exists between medical professionals regarding patient aftercare. On my second week at another surgery, I put in a request to observe consultations, only to be told that would not be possible. Although disappointed, I grasped a vital lesson in doctor-patient confidentiality. In reception, as I sorted through prescriptions, the variety in drugs being prescribed made me comprehend the extensive scientific knowledge a doctor requires. In the midst of my work experience at GlaxoSmithKline, I learnt, a pharmaceutical company's work went beyond just manufacturing drugs for profit. Its role in trying to eradicate Lymphatic Filariasis with donations of Albendazole, gave me an insight in to the coordinated response required from doctors and such companies, to reduce morbidity in third world countries. Regularly visiting the news on the NHS website provides me with current information on health affairs.
I volunteered for three months at a school for disabled children. At a learning exercise, I sat with a boy who had Cerebral Palsy. Whilst interacting with him, he could not maintain eye contact but managed to reach out and touch my hand. This moving and humbling experience showed me there was more to medicine than just saving lives. On my ongoing hospital volunteering placement, I have recognised the value of a good bedside manner simply by befriending patients and providing a listening ear, at feeding and reading time. Medicine may have advanced scientifically, but a caring attitude will always play a major role in helping a patient get better.
Spending four hours a week, as an air cadet, has taught me to manage my time effectively. Through tutoring cadets I have developed my presentation skills. Perseverance and self-motivation helped me attain the rank of Sergeant, thus putting me in charge of cadets. My teamwork skills are constantly tested as I actively work with non-commissioned officers to maintain efficient running of the squadron. Five years in this regimented organisation has prepared me for the diligence and dedication I need to study medicine. Completing Bronze and Silver Duke of Edinburgh awards was a challenging but worthwhile experience. On the Silver expedition, a girl was stung by Stinging nettles; through my quick and decisive action, I was able to calm the irritation using Dock leaves. As a marshal at the Windsor half marathon, I supported paramedics treating exhausted runners.
Achieving AAB at A2 forced me to acknowledge my own complacency. This lapse in judgment has taught me not to take anything for granted, and as I resit, I only hope this learning curve has not come too late. Having been unable to obtain a place at medical school via a foundation course, I have taken up A level Chemistry during my gap year, in order to better prepare me for the scientific content the degree entails.
Becoming a doctor is fraught with many challenges. Yet, with sheer determination and from the personal attributes I have shown, I feel I am capable to cope with the demands of studying medicine.
Universities Applied to:
- University of Liverpool (Medicine) - Offer (AA) Firm
- Lancaster University (Medicine) - Offer (AA) Declined
- Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry (Medicine) - Offer(AA) Insurance
- University of Southampton (Medicine) -Rejection
Grades Achieved:
As of June 2011
- Biology(A2) - B
- Maths (A2) - A
- Geography (A2) - A
- Subject Physics (AS)-B
- General Studies (AS)-B
- Critical Thinking (AS)-E
As of June 2012
- Biology(A2) - A
- Maths (A2) - A
- Geography (A2) - A
- Chemistry (A2) - A
- Physics (AS)-B
- General Studies (AS)-B
- Critical Thinking (AS)-E
Comments
Resit applicant achieving AAB first time round. Was required to reflect and acknowledge on the need to resit as well as explain why I did not take Chemistry in the first place.
General Comments:
