My Goal To Become A Medical Professional

Throughout my education, the workings of life have been of great interest to me; my curiosity in this field led me to studying Biochemistry at university which, has given me the opportunity to explore many of my interests in this area. I have thoroughly enjoyed many aspects of the course but of particular interest were the topics based on the immune system and diseases that arise from Immunodeficiencies. In my third year research project, based on mitochondria, I investigated the interactions of mitochondrial cytochrome c with the phospholipid cardiolipin, using cyclic voltammetry. This allowed me to expand my knowledge on mitochondria and diseases affecting them. Having begun my degree with the intent to pursue a career in lab based research, I have reflected on my higher education experiences and it is now clear to me that a career in patient interaction and treatment is what I would like to pursue. Over the summer break I carried out a two week period of volunteering in a local care home, where most of the residents suffered from dementia. Care for the elderly is becoming an evermore important area of healthcare in the UK due to its ageing population, which poses challenges for the current workings of the health and social care systems. In this role I was able to observe healthcare assistants and how they dealt with situations they faced, assisting them where possible.

For example, I observed one resident who suffered from schizophrenia, who was in extreme distress as she thought she was unable to see. Watching how the healthcare assistants reassured her in an efficient and professional manner provided me with an opportunity to see how to deal with a distressed patient. I was allowed to interact with many of the residents, many of whom just wanted someone to converse with, helping to improve their spirits if they were feeling isolated and lonely. My time at the care home allowed me to gain an understanding of some diseases and empathize with the residents who were suffering and struggling to adapt to life in a residential care home. I am now also a member of the LINKS first aid society at university, this has led to me planning to become a member of the St Johns Ambulance service and I will shortly be applying to work as a healthcare assistant in a local NHS trust. While at university I have also been involved with many extra-curricular activities. I have served on both the hockey and golf committees, and worked part time for the Student’s Union. In order to fulfill these roles and commitments as well as complete my studies I have had to mange my time effectively and be organised, a skill which is very important to a medical professional. My roles of social secretary of Hockey, Golf captain and president have allowed me to further develop my communication, teamwork and leadership skills. As social secretary, I had to ensure that all members of the club felt included in the activities that were planned and that nobody felt uncomfortable at any of the events. This role gave the opportunity to talk to many people with varying concerns and make sure they were addressed properly and felt reassured.

I have also in the past played golf at a regional level, which has given me experience of being able to perform under pressure. I plan on contributing to wider university life by continuing my hobbies alongside my medical studies. I am aware of both the physical and mental demands of being a doctor and how challenging a career path in medicine can be. However, a career in medicine can also be very rewarding and stimulating and I feel the skills I have acquired through my various experiences have equipped me well for studying and practicing as an effective doctor.