Medicine Personal Statement Example 63

My passionate interest in the sciences has been a major influence upon the choices I have made in terms of my academic studies. From a young age I wanted to understand how and why everything worked. In particular, I became fascinated with the sheer complexity of the human body and the way the different body systems work together seamlessly.

This led to an interest in medicine and I have actively researched and pursued opportunities to gain first hand experience in this field. Therefore, I believe I have a clear understanding of the demands of studying medicine at university and I have the determination to succeed.

Experiencing the hospital environment first hand reinforced my decision to study medicine. Shadowing a consultant orthopaedic surgeon at Glasgow Royal Infirmary enabled me to see how different departments within the hospital operated: wards, clinics and the operating theatre. I was given the opportunity to observe and participate in patient examinations in orthopaedic clinics.

This experience highlighted the importance of good communications skills when putting patients at their ease. I observed two procedures in the operating theatre, an operation on a patient's humerus after a comminuted fracture to the elbow and a knee arthroscopy. In addition, I shadowed fifth year medical students who were being taught about trauma: hip trauma, shoulder trauma and hand injuries.

This placement enabled me to gain a greater insight into the range of qualities and skills required to be effective as a doctor and further encouraged me to take up this challenging but worth-while career. To broaden my experiences within medicine I have organised placements at Yorkhill Children's Hospital and in a local surgery and am very much looking forward to both placements. I am also befriender at a local hospice and attend to the personal needs of the patients.

Throughout my school career I have always worked to the best of my ability. Consequently I have received awards for both academic attainment and exceptional effort at my school's Awards Ceremonies. This session in order to study S6 academic courses I have to travel to three other educational establishments. This has been a challenging experience but has enabled me to become more independent as I have developed new skills that will stand me in good stead at university. In addition to my academic studies I have volunteered for a number of extra-curricular activities.

I have undergone 'Buddy' training and provide peer support for S1 and S2 pupils in my school. I enjoy this challenge, as I have to be very patient and sensitive to the needs the pupils if they are to feel valued, qualities I will need as a doctor.

My leadership skills and organisational abilities were evident in the setting up of a games club for S1 pupils. I have volunteered for my school's Charity Committee and have raised funds through various activities for Water Aid, the Haiti Earthquake Appeal and SCIAF.

My interests outside of school are varied but music is my passion. I play the drums, guitar and keyboard and have participated in the musical activities at the Summer Academy at the University of Strathclyde. This experience allowed me to develop my team-working capabilities and my leadership skills we had to work together as a group. My percussion group were invited to open and close the final ceremony.

I believe that my passion for learning together with my drive and commitment would enable me to meet the standards required of medical students. I look forward to studying medicine at university and believe that I will fulfil my potential, enjoy a fruitful career, while making a positive contribution to society.