Despite the lengthy course of chemotherapy, my cousin's raging brain tumour was becoming
uncontrollable. During this period, I was fortunate to witness the compassion shown by the doctors.
Although it was evident that my cousin's life was coming to an end, the oncologists persisted in
exploring all possible avenues for him to at least reach his 10th birthday. The remarkable positive
impact that the doctors had, not only on my cousin in his final stages but also on us, the relatives, at
such a difficult time, is what inspired me to study medicine.
To further understand the complexities of science, I embarked on an MSc in Reproductive and
Developmental Biology, where I carried out a laboratory project on 'The Recognition of the Vaginal
Microbiota by Human TLR2 and its Implications in Preterm Birth'. I continually learned about new
scientific advancements, which is essential in medicine as guidelines are frequently updated to
ensure optimal patient outcomes. I completed this after studying BSc Biomedical Science, where I
elicited medical histories and practised basic clinical investigations under supervision. My degrees
have provided an in-depth understanding of the lifelong learning aspect of a doctor.
During my one-week placement in the fetal unit at St Georges hospital, I shadowed obstetricians and
midwives as they performed a caesarean section for a patient experiencing gestational diabetes. The
multidisciplinary team displayed empathy whilst listening attentively to the patient - this reminded
me of Domain 3 of the GMC's Good Medical Practice, as it focuses on communication, partnership,
and teamwork. This placement highlighted the importance of a dignified doctor-patient relationship.
A solid doctor-patient relationship would allow patients to trust me more as a doctor, enabling me
to provide better patient care.
Volunteering at Eltandia Hall care home on the 'young disabled' unit opened my eyes to the
importance of adapting communication. I became especially aware of this when I conversed with a
resident with a hearing impairment, where I spoke slower to aid their comprehension. I further
developed the skill of adapting communication when volunteering at Barnardo's Triangle Charity,
where I performed actions when illustrating concepts to the nursery children. As a doctor, I will have
to synthesise information before tailoring it to other healthcare professionals and patients.
Having spoken to the consultant geneticists throughout my one year as a patient pathway
coordinator at St Georges Hospital, I understand that it is crucial to have a work-life balance to
reduce the pressures of a demanding life-long career. As a long-standing member of British
Gymnastics, I orchestrate group performances and have received gold awards during national
competitions. This has allowed me to demonstrate my ability to work effectively in a team. Effective
teamwork is vital as a doctor, as working with other healthcare professionals will enable patients to
receive optimal care. Being dance captain during school allowed me to delegate responsibilities,
expressing my leadership role. Collectively these activities helped me balance academia and extra-
curricular activities.
Despite medicine's realities, I have amassed significant experience to begin my medical school
journey and demonstrated my excellent interpersonal skills through volunteering and extra-
curricular activities. My BSc and MSc degrees highlight my dedication to lifelong learning in
medicine, which will equip me to provide excellent patient care as a doctor.
uncontrollable. During this period, I was fortunate to witness the compassion shown by the doctors.
Although it was evident that my cousin's life was coming to an end, the oncologists persisted in
exploring all possible avenues for him to at least reach his 10th birthday. The remarkable positive
impact that the doctors had, not only on my cousin in his final stages but also on us, the relatives, at
such a difficult time, is what inspired me to study medicine.
To further understand the complexities of science, I embarked on an MSc in Reproductive and
Developmental Biology, where I carried out a laboratory project on 'The Recognition of the Vaginal
Microbiota by Human TLR2 and its Implications in Preterm Birth'. I continually learned about new
scientific advancements, which is essential in medicine as guidelines are frequently updated to
ensure optimal patient outcomes. I completed this after studying BSc Biomedical Science, where I
elicited medical histories and practised basic clinical investigations under supervision. My degrees
have provided an in-depth understanding of the lifelong learning aspect of a doctor.
During my one-week placement in the fetal unit at St Georges hospital, I shadowed obstetricians and
midwives as they performed a caesarean section for a patient experiencing gestational diabetes. The
multidisciplinary team displayed empathy whilst listening attentively to the patient - this reminded
me of Domain 3 of the GMC's Good Medical Practice, as it focuses on communication, partnership,
and teamwork. This placement highlighted the importance of a dignified doctor-patient relationship.
A solid doctor-patient relationship would allow patients to trust me more as a doctor, enabling me
to provide better patient care.
Volunteering at Eltandia Hall care home on the 'young disabled' unit opened my eyes to the
importance of adapting communication. I became especially aware of this when I conversed with a
resident with a hearing impairment, where I spoke slower to aid their comprehension. I further
developed the skill of adapting communication when volunteering at Barnardo's Triangle Charity,
where I performed actions when illustrating concepts to the nursery children. As a doctor, I will have
to synthesise information before tailoring it to other healthcare professionals and patients.
Having spoken to the consultant geneticists throughout my one year as a patient pathway
coordinator at St Georges Hospital, I understand that it is crucial to have a work-life balance to
reduce the pressures of a demanding life-long career. As a long-standing member of British
Gymnastics, I orchestrate group performances and have received gold awards during national
competitions. This has allowed me to demonstrate my ability to work effectively in a team. Effective
teamwork is vital as a doctor, as working with other healthcare professionals will enable patients to
receive optimal care. Being dance captain during school allowed me to delegate responsibilities,
expressing my leadership role. Collectively these activities helped me balance academia and extra-
curricular activities.
Despite medicine's realities, I have amassed significant experience to begin my medical school
journey and demonstrated my excellent interpersonal skills through volunteering and extra-
curricular activities. My BSc and MSc degrees highlight my dedication to lifelong learning in
medicine, which will equip me to provide excellent patient care as a doctor.
