We're not long back from our holiday in Mexico (read: the weather was beautiful, we drank tequila, I'm still as white as when I left) and the jet-lag is far too painful to write something long here.
Once I've settled properly into my new job, working as the 'Learning Support Assistant and ASD Coordinator' for a local secondary school, I'll blog something faintly amusing and entertaining about it.
But for now, I thought you'd like to read my all-new personal statement. Us wannabe medics (and dentists and vets) have to apply for University before October 15th - making it almost a whole year before you actually attend and get to don your white coat. So, whilst avoiding the midday sun in Mexico, I finished my statement, completed my UCAS and sent it off to be polished up by New College (I'll avoid the obvious joke involving a turd...). Obviously, I've put a huge amount of thought and effort (and time!) into this statement and I have a million-and-one things to say about it but I thought it might be better for you to be able to read it straight-through, the way an admissions tutor would, with no additional explanation.
So here you go, and I would love to know what you think... It's too late to change it, anyway.
"People are remarkable: we are so similar, yet all unique. I decided on a career as a doctor after realising that my passions lie with communicating, bettering others' lives and adapting to individuals. I am particularly fascinated by the roles of cells and components in the functioning of the body, as well as the effects when these malfunction. I wish to read Medicine because the vocation combines a scientific exploration of the body whilst recognising individual factors, in a way not offered by other careers.
I have explored cultural healing through my Extended Project and was impressed by the effect belief can have on recovery. Many Bolivians consult both biomedics and shamans for their ailments as they see the two systems as complimentary, not opposing; an integrated approach can result in greater patient satisfaction. I also looked at pain, which has a physiological root yet Tibetan communities are able to control their sensitivity to it through meditation, leading to extraordinary acts of endurance.
At a Villiers Park Neuroscience course I enjoyed discussing abstract concepts of thought and emotion in terms of chemical signals and response to stimuli. Although highly reductionist, scientific understanding is the cornerstone of effective practice.
During work experience in GP surgeries I met patients whose expectations exceeded what doctors were able to provide and became frustrated when medicinal treatment was not offered. This was common in patients whose illnesses were self-limiting and I saw the pressure that doctors are under to provide an instant cure. Often the primary concern of patients related to their personal life and I noted the importance of ensuring the treatment plan is congruent with the patient's medical and personal needs. My most illuminating experience has been at a surgery where I met young, pregnant teenagers. I found it uncomfortable to reciprocate their enthusiasm and although I was surprised at my reaction, after reading my reflective journal I realise that I can understand the girls' attitudes towards pregnancy without agreeing with their decision; a doctor's role is as an impartial caregiver.
Volunteering at a hospice, I was pleased to see that staff encourage patient independence by finding ways for patients to do things themselves, rather than completing tasks quickly for them. I am keen to nurture this attitude, where dignity is patiently promoted.
Whilst working at a SEN play scheme over the summer, one boy was prone to hitting, causing staff to be wary and spend less time interacting with him. I later realised that our reluctance to engage with the boy and his challenging behaviour was discrimination. Since, I have made sure I try to interact with all of the children fully and to look for the hidden discrimination people with disabilities may face so I can better understand patients' concerns in future.
As Vice President of the college Student Union I organised events such as a Sexual Health awareness week. Good communication was important to allow team members to better support each other when some tasks were left uncompleted close to the event. Instead of trying to take on too many jobs myself, we divided tasks up fairly and together we executed the event smoothly.
I currently work as a Teaching Assistant at a secondary school where I also support students with autism. I am keen to develop a strong relationship with the students in order to better respond to their personal and educational needs.
MedLink courses described the stressful nature of a doctor's role. To counteract stress, I exercise daily which has also increased my stamina and energy levels. I find writing relaxing and I have channelled this into a blog about my gap year experiences.
Reading books such as The Man Who Mistook His Wife For A Hat by Oliver Sacks has strengthened my interest in reading a subject where science and people combine to offer a challenging yet fulfilling University experience and career."
