My Strong Motivation To Pursue A Career In Medicine

During a family vacation to Ghana, having been bitten by a mosquito and being treated for malaria I ended up spending the majority of the time bedridden. I was not adequately aware of what was happening when it came to the procedures or as to why there were several drips connected to my body. Nonetheless, I was intrigued and excited to learn more and expand my knowledge.

As I have matured, I have developed a deeper appreciation for the life-changing qualities of a medical profession. I have realised that doctors are involved in far more than just medical diagnosis and treatment but also community healthcare, medical research, and education, all with an underlying aim to improve people's wellbeing. I want to devote my life to a profession where I can impact and make a real difference in people's lives. A career in medicine will allow me to achieve this feat. To ensure I made the right career choice I organised work experience to explore the art and science of medicine. Through observing doctors, I have seen various aspects of their job, from ward rounds to theatre work where I even witnessed the amputation of a diabetic gangrenous foot.

When I discussed with doctors the patient's postoperative management, I noticed the compassion displayed by them when talking about sensitive cases. I saw how doctors reassured patients and the impact it had on their health to the extent that I emulated their principles by showing good bedside manners when dealing with patients. This experience painted medicine in a new light, and as a result, I acquired a better understanding of the characteristics a doctor must possess, notably being kind, caring, friendly and most importantly approachable at all times, all of which I believe I possess within me. As a volunteer, I have seen the mass of practitioners that doctor's lead and work alongside. I have been privileged attend meetings and witnessed A&E trauma cases where surgeons, consultants, nurses and physiotherapist worked efficiently together as an impressive team. Being around these professionals, I have furnished an understanding of communication; a skill honed and put to use in teaching science at Southfields Academy to a diverse group including students with behavioural problems and learning difficulties. Being a teacher exposes me to situations that require patience, tolerance, and endurance as managing large numbers of students can be cumbersome at times. However, spurring me on is the challenge to break down the barrier of low self-esteem and in turn inspire them to take charge of their studies despite their difficulties as they are the only ones who can make their fortune. I was happy when an autistic student gradually began to contribute to more classroom discussions.

These experiences have fuelled further my ambition of becoming "Tomorrows Doctor". During my time at Queen Mary University alongside my studies, I was also the captain of the men's first football team and nominated as the player of the year for two consecutive years. I coordinated and led the team's strategic committee that challenged for trophies, and in doing so, improved the attitude of my teammates. Sports have always played an essential part in my life. It has reinforced the importance of commitment, and as a result, I have completed a first aid course. It has made me a good leader and enhanced my knowledge of interpersonal skills that would help me in a medical career. Studying medicine will have a tremendous impact on my life, but applying the knowledge and experience gained to become a doctor without borders, improving the quality of life and providing quality health care to deprived corners of the world and the underprivileged, an area of medicine I have noticed to be underserved, will make my life more meaningful. I understand a medical career can be challenging; however, I have always shown determination to achieve my goals, and I am excited and confident that the skills I have gained will help me to become a good doctor.