Hearing my father's heart beating louder than anyone else's and noticing a big scar on his chest when I was 10, I started to wonder if the two were connected. I learned that he had had multiple heart valve replacements, and having witnessed the impact and support of his doctors, I was inspired to pursue a career in medicine and started looking into other medical conditions.
Curious to understand the science behind cancer treatments, I completed a virtual two-week course 'Exploring Cancer Medicines' by the University of Leeds. I learned about the causes of cancer, evaluated different treatment options, and submitted an article that developed my knowledge and research skills. I also attended an online medical masterclass on paediatric oncology as part of the Cambridge Festival where I learned that children's cancers develop through fewer mutations and tend to have a better prognosis. I recognised the importance of patient autonomy; as a doctor, I would be trained to give advice, but ultimately the patient decides whether to go through with the treatment or not.
As well as dispensing patient medication and interacting with customers, my work experience at a pharmacy improved my communication skills and was the first time I practised patient confidentiality. I was responsible for catching up with late or changed prescriptions, which honed my attention to detail and active listening. Implementing these skills in my career will be essential as any error could potentially be life-threatening for the patient. I noticed how the pharmacy was constantly in contact with their patients, and while working at a GP practice, doctors were in touch with hospitals, mental health services and opticians. I find the interdisciplinary nature of medicine engaging; I would enjoy working with different colleagues and having an informed discussion to establish a treatment plan for a patient. While balancing studies and working at a GP practice, I adapted to a tight schedule. This will be vital for managing stress and meeting challenging deadlines, similar to the GP's deadline to administer the Polio vaccination to over 600 patients below the age of 9 in just under 3 weeks.
To get a deeper insight into the challenges of a career in medicine, I attended the University of Cambridge's 'Medicine: A Day in the Life'. I heard from a surgeon, an ICU paediatrician and a palliative care consultant, all of whom emphasised emotional intelligence and resilience to be foundational qualities in the life of a doctor. I developed an understanding of the unsociable hours and the various challenges faced by doctors, such as the need to reassure upset patients and deliver distressing news. I understand that, whilst medicine is a gratifying career, I will have to adapt to a demanding lifestyle; pursuing medicine is a decision I have made thoughtfully and carefully.
To follow my passion for helping others, I regularly volunteer. For example, I helped prepare the annual Senior Citizen party at my high school. This brought the elderly guests joy as many of them were suffering from loneliness, an issue I believe needs more recognition by younger generations. I have volunteered in Year 9 and 10 science classes, helping them with practicals and challenging scientific theory, whilst allowing me to share my enthusiasm for science. I also worked in a Cancer Research Charity shop in Greenford as these opportunities have helped me realise how important it is to volunteer my time for the benefit of others, allowing me further develop empathy and teamwork which will prove useful when handling difficult discussions with patients in the future.
Although the difficulties in such a career are humbling, I believe those challenges will make me grow as a person. My passion for problem-solving, along with a focus on the importance of patient care, make me excellently suited for a degree in medicine. Through my empathy and reflective nature, I feel that I could thrive in the medical profession.