My Passion For The Art Of Medicine
Medicine is not only a science; it does not only consist of prescribing drugs and layering plasters. It is an art. Not every patient is cast from the same mould and broad brushstroke. Following an art project where I studied Leonardo da Vinci investigating his anatomical drawings and medical impact on the world today was what sparked my interest in medicine. He proved that creativity and innovative thinking are skills out of many required in the medical field. Medicine thus combined my passion for both science and art.
Medicine overlapped my love for the visual detail and scientific precision hence I began to seek experience to understand the holistic running of a hospital. Overshadowing an OB-GYN gave me an insight on the more challenging and demanding aspects of medicine. Not only was the doctor able to accurately and insightfully deal with the medical issues, she took pride in ensuring the comfort of the patient. I was impressed more by the obstetrician's ability to attain the trust of an understandably concerned mother, by gently easing concerns than I was by her technical knowledge which seemed to come as a second nature. Overshadowing a root canal procedure at a dental clinic, I recognised the vital importance of communication and ensuring the wellbeing of the patient throughout, in addition to demonstrating a high level of precision under pressure. However, medicine is certainly not a one-man job and requires an incredible amount of teamwork, which I discovered while filing and helping patients with the receptionists and nurses at the clinic. Both occupations serve as the foundation for preserving an organized and friendly environment as they maintain the patients trust and confidentiality. As the nurses comforted anxious patients and concerned relatives my eyes were opened to the delicacy of medicine.
In my love for the precise sciences as well as the creative arts I decided to teach year 4 art and maths classes, acquiring some much needed patience. Teaching young children may seem simple, but in a class with many nationalities and a range of abilities this proved a difficult task. With adequate preparation I developed a variety of tasks attentive to each individual’s capabilities thus sustaining a fun yet educational atmosphere for everyone. As a person stimulated and invigorated by the artistic senses I was fascinated when working with children with Down's syndrome. I learnt the importance of visual support when communicating, using pictures to teach them number concepts and in recalling spoken information.
I undertook rigorous academic study with biology and chemistry A levels, taking a leading role in extra activities such as the school science fair where I demonstrated the effects of smoking on the lungs and brain. I actively pursued stretching my critical thinking and problem solving skills which are vital in treating patients, engaging in A level maths and accomplishing a silver award in the Leeds University Maths challenge. Art is a passion of mine and my creativity, analysis and observational sensitivity allowed me to secure full marks in my exam project, I believe which are instrumental in medicine. As a prefect I was compelled to display a higher level of responsibility and leadership, my confidence heightened. Equally I invested time in my football and netball team where the competitive environment necessitated strategic teamwork and communication. Representing my school at two Model United Nations conferences, I discovered the beauty and importance of in depth research to be able to reason with and work towards resolving significant global affairs, collaborating and speaking publicly in ways I hadn't before.
The art of medicine is far beyond a learned algorithm, it is an art - the human body is a place of incredible beauty in its function and performance. Therefore, medicine is a passion I wish to pursue with my skills which I continue to develop in my desire to leave a mark on my community in service.
