Pharmacology Personal Statement Example 1

I am of Haitian descent and my country is one known for its harsh living conditions. There is a constant struggle for survival and poverty is an endemic burden. Despite numerous advances in technology, Haiti has remained the least-developed country in the Western Hemisphere. My parents moved to the Turks and Caicos Islands when I was four years old, in hopes of finding a better life for our family. Growing up, I watched both of my parents struggle financially, each one working at two jobs to provide for us. I have witnessed my mother's health decline as a result, making her life even more difficult. I have sat by her side, watching her take medication she will have to be on for the rest of life. There were days when the drugs that should have been her support left her struggling for breath, due to side effects. I have felt powerless watching her suffer, wanting to help her, but having neither the required knowledge nor the training to do so.

While in secondary school, I developed a passion for science, and, as a result of my mother's health condition, I also began to develop an interest in medicinal drugs and their effects on human metabolism. These combined factors made my decision to pursue a degree in Pharmacology, an obvious and resolute choice. I was determined to excel in my studies, and this led to my sitting and achieving creditable results in thirteen subjects in the CSEC examinations. My awards at graduation included Valedictorian of the graduating class, Outstanding Achievement in the Disciplines of Science, as well as the Police Award for the Most Disciplined Student.
In order to achieve the goals I set for myself, I am pursuing Advanced Level studies in Biology, Chemistry, English Language and Mathematics. Although the complexity and volume of work are challenging, I hope to achieve the grades necessary for entrance to university. In addition to my A-Level studies, I am also a Senior Prefect and a Reading Mentor to junior students. These pastoral responsibilities have helped me to both develop my communication and leadership skills and appreciate the help of others. They also taught me perseverance and trustworthiness.
Focusing only on academics would not have taken me this far. I have also attempted to balance my studies with my extra-curricular activities as a member of the Neo-Catechumenal community. I serve as a coordinator of the Youth Group at the Catholic Church. I was also a participant in the World Youth Day Pilgrimage to Koln, Germany, in the summer of 2005 and to Sydney, Australia, in the summer of 2008. All of the above experiences have enhanced my overall personal development, and helped me appreciate the importance of time-management. On a lighter note, I also enjoy playing softball and have participated in annual national tournaments with both my secondary schools.
I found my work experience to be extremely meaningful and rewarding. I volunteered at two local medical clinics during my last two summer holidays. I was involved in a variety of medical procedures, observing operations, X-ray and mammogram procedures, and also assisted in the pharmaceutical and blood banking departments. Such experiences have further strengthened my decision to pursue a career in Pharmacology.

For the past thirteen years, the Turks and Caicos Islands have been my home and the source of many opportunities for my entire family. Presently, the Government is constructing two state-of-the-art hospitals, and the Turks and Caicos Islands will be in need of a large team of medically-trained professionals. Upon receiving the necessary medical training, it is my desire to return home to make a contribution to the medical services. Additionally, I will also be in position to aid the immense number of Haitians living on the islands. I share a common goal with them; that is, the active pursuit and fulfilment of a better life.