My Dream of Becoming a Doctor: Motivations and Aspirations
Medicine is a constantly developing field that has many challenges: intellectual, emotional and social. Seeing the realities of medicine in community care and secondary care to contextualise the underpinning science has made me realise becoming a doctor is the challenge for me. This is why I want to be a doctor essay where I will share that I want to be a doctor to make a difference to the health and wellbeing of society, through improving quality of life for individuals whilst contributing to the practice of medical research that drives healthcare.
After learning about genetics and the cell cycle, I was inspired to further explore these biochemical mechanisms. Carey’s “The Epigenetic Revolution” helped me realise how environmental conditions can influence gene expression; in particular how some tumour suppressor genes are silenced epigenetically by methylation. The potential and complexity of reversing this process is an area of research I look to explore. However, the complexity of cancer biology seems mismatched with its current treatment. This is something that I noticed when shadowing an oncologist. Witnessing them explaining the side effects of chemotherapy made me understand the limitations of its non-specific approach. The impact of these drugs on the patient’s quality of life was particularly emotive and inspired me to undertake an EPQ on the potential of CAR-T cell therapy as a viable, personalised treatment of cancer. What stayed with me the most from the consultations was when the doctor was explaining metastasis to a bowel cancer patient. This was done in such a way that was both accessible, sensitive and coherent, making me realise their role as an educator and translator.
Volunteering as a mealtime assistant in a gastroenterology ward for three months, I gave patients breakfast, which at times proved challenging. One nil by mouth patient was confused and frustrated about his meal plan. Talking to him required empathy and tact. I realised how crucial communication skills are in a clinical environment. I emulated the friendliness, approachability and calm demeanour of the nurses I was working alongside. As every patient was different, this improved my adaptability, listening skills and confidence. By understanding the patient behind the disease, I noticed subtleties. After speaking to an elderly patient, she told me she felt drained and suicidal. I learned the importance of the holistic approach, considering loneliness is common in hospitals. This made me more understanding and emotionally resilient. I reflected on Atul Gawande’s “Being Mortal” where the role of a doctor is not solely to “ensure survival”, but to “enable wellbeing”. I further recognised this as a volunteer at a care home for physically disabled adults. Engaging with them and participating in activities, such as ‘wheelchair dancing’ uplifted their mood. I appreciated how I made a small but meaningful difference to their day.
Having played hockey for five years, I understand the importance of teamwork and the ability to both give and receive instruction. I drew parallels with this when observing how the doctor systematically collaborated with the patient and nurses during bronchoscopy. It emphasised the effectiveness of teamwork in a clinical setting. I further developed these skills when volunteering at my local pharmacy. I enjoyed working practically under pressure and enhancing my professionalism by interacting with both staff and patients.
I enjoy diversity in academia and developed my research skills when undertaking a dissertation for the Brilliant Club scholar programme. I assessed the safety of nuclear fusion as a future energy source. This demanded academic rigour, critical thinking, and evaluation, enabling me to achieve a First-Class Honours.
Despite my academic demands, I understand the importance maintaining my own emotional wellbeing. As my creative outlet, I enjoy reading and playing the clarinet. I have committed time to this personal enrichment and am working towards my grade 8.
Reflecting on my experiences, I understand the intellectual, emotional and social challenges that doctors face. They provide me the opportunity to evolve as a scholar, clinician and professional to excel if given the opportunity, in a medical career. Shadowing, volunteering and wider reading has allowed me to develop key knowledge and transferable skills. I now believe I have the attributes to cope with this high-pressure environment and I am excited to pursue a career that is as intellectually demanding as it is caring.
