Choking on a tooth, breaking an arm and scalding a foot are amongst the numerous maladies my sibling and I acquired during our childhood, resulting in frequent visits to the Emergency Department. I was fascinated by the various illnesses that required a trip to the hospital and enjoyed scanning other patients for signs of sickness and guessing their diagnosis. After observing the Emergency Department from the perspective of a doctor during my work experience, I realised that these early medical encounters triggered my desire to study medicine.

 

During my work experience, I was exposed to a variety of patients whilst attached to the multidisciplinary medical team at the Emergency Department. At the forefront of the hospital, the environment was demanding but evidently rewarding as doctors were able to provide life-saving and immediate care for patients. Cases ranged from minor injuries to critical conditions requiring an air ambulance; situations that relied upon the versatility of the doctors' skills. The sheer assortment of patients also meant that team work and decisiveness were among the skills displayed by the doctors in the Emergency Department; as treatment had to be fast and effective. As well as acute care, I was exposed to long term care whilst on the neonatal intensive-care unit. I observed the tentative progression of the neonates and recognised the vital support provided by ever-advancing technology. My exposure to different specialities taught me that communication between the different departments in a hospital is essential which was exemplified whilst I attended a radiology meeting. Complicated x-rays were discussed between varied specialists also conveying the importance of life-long learning.

 

I look forward to the prospect of continuous learning as I enjoy exploring new ideas. I have attained an A grade in RS A level, two years early, and I have now undertaken the YASS, EPQ and Biology Olympiad. Within my EPQ, I will research the various treatments for schizophrenia, an illness that interests me significantly. In addition to the EPQ, the Biology Olympiad will allow me to transcend the Biology A level syllabus. My YASS is based on 'Human Genetics and Health Issues' and as genetics is a rapidly developing field, I believe that the short course will give me an insight into the future of medicine. I also enjoy expanding my general scientific knowledge and had the fantastic opportunity to do so after winning a fully paid trip to NASA. I entered and won a nationwide science competition and visited renowned space centres in the USA. The trip affirmed my commitment to science; the basis of medicine.

 

I am committed to several roles within my school and local community. I have volunteered in charity shops, where I was trained to use the till. I was able to master the till quickly and was confident to work independently in a new environment. I currently volunteer on a weekly basis; teaching children sign language. Being a teacher has taught me how to handle high pressure situations. As a maths mentor I am able to transfer my teaching skills to assist a younger student. As a sixth form prefect and a peer mentor I have to communicate with students and teachers and have developed my communication and leadership skills extensively from these interactions. For the Haiti earthquake appeal with Envision; I organised a talent show, involving over one hundred young people, within a team of sixth form students. Like everything in life, commitment and determination were necessary to reach our goal and I believe that these characteristics convey my readiness to embark upon a medical course.

 

I look forward to treating the next generation of broken arms and scalded feet as a doctor and realise that a career in medicine is not just a job but a lifestyle choice. However, it is a lifestyle that I cannot wait to adopt.

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