Personal Statement:Medicine 90

Why do you want to study this course or subject?

The mechanics of human anatomy and physiology astound and amaze me: from the intricacies and fine science of cell physiology and pathology, to the large systems and structures present in the human body. Medicine holds so much scope for the future and the doctors of tomorrow will face different challenges from those of the past. As well as the fascinating theory behind medical practise, it is those unknown challenges, the progression of knowledge and the development of treatment that have inspired my desire to pursue a career in Medicine.

Spending two days shadowing a pathologist has given me experience within an NHS hospital. Seeing firsthand how microbes are cultured for identification, the machines used to test blood samples and how as a team they work to diagnose illnesses fascinated me.

The research of my extended project concerning the causes of atopic eczema has given me a glimpse into the scientific basis of diagnosis and the development of treatment within Medicine. The inferences taken from epidemiological studies have shown me just how progressive Medicine is. More specifically I developed an interest in Dermatology after speaking to a local dermatologist about his work in diagnosis and I relish the opportunity to discover more exciting specialities whilst reading Medicine at university.

I have spoken to several consultants on a Doctors Academy course which has given me an insight into the specialised career paths in Medicine. Speaking to the students and consultants who gave the talk has only confirmed my dedication. They all stressed the importance of communication and teamwork in Medicine.

The challenges of the future need to be met by versatile, enthusiastic thinkers. I believe I have the intellectual capacity, enthusiasm, interpersonal skills and resilience to be successful in such a demanding course and vocation. All of the experience I have gained has only strengthened my ambition to become one of tomorrow's doctors.

How have your qualifications and studies helped you to prepare for this course or subject?

'Reading an introductory book to anatomy and physiology has deepened my understanding and fascination of the human body. Whilst reading the book over the summer I visited 'Bodies, the Exhibition' which fuelled my interest by presenting the mechanics of the human body from a three dimensional perspective. I have also taken a 16 hour First Aid course where I developed skills in logically assessing people's health according to external clues, putting theory into practise.

The research of my extended project concerning the causes of atopic eczema has given me a glimpse into the scientific basis of diagnosis and the development of treatment within Medicine. The inferences taken from epidemiological studies have shown me just how progressive Medicine is.

In order to develop my teamwork and leadership skills I completed all the Duke of Edinburgh awards within two years, which also stands testament to my time management skills and resilience. I have also learnt how to lead groups of people with a range of different abilities completing my BCU 3 Star award and training for my Level 1 coaching in paddle sports. Learning to inspire trust and confidence is crucial in leading a group of novice paddlers; a transferable skill which I believe to be essential to treating a patient.

A busy lifestyle of playing rugby, the piano to grade 5 and completing LAMDA exams has equipped me with strong social and communication skills. These are essential to me during my voluntary work at Trinity Hospice and Brian House children's hospice. Working in palliative care with the young and old has shown me the importance of a friendly empathetic nature with people of all ages and also how rewarding a career in Medicine could be. I have found that good communication with patients at both ends of the age range is an effective skill to have.

They all stressed the importance of communication and teamwork in Medicine.

What else have you done to prepare outside of education, and why are these experiences useful?

To relax I enjoy paddle sports and hiking, which in 2008 took me on a three week sea kayaking expedition to British Columbia. Among other hobbies such as playing the piano, I also enjoy reading scientific literature. Recently 'The Selfish Gene' and a book written by Lisa Chiu detailing rare genetic diseases and how diagnosis has come about have both captivated me.

Spending two days shadowing a pathologist has given me experience within an NHS hospital. Seeing firsthand how microbes are cultured for identification, the machines used to test blood samples and how as a team they work to diagnose illnesses fascinated me.

I am currently completing a 21 week sign language course to communicate with the deaf.

Learning to inspire trust and confidence is crucial in leading a group of novice paddlers; a transferable skill which I believe to be essential to treating a patient.

These varied experiences have not only prepared me practically and emotionally for the demands of a career in Medicine, but also enhanced my empathy, communication, leadership, and resilience, all essential qualities to be a successful doctor.

How personal statements have changed?

The current personal statement format, with three 'scaffolding' questions, was introduced by Ucas in September 2025. This personal statement was submitted before then, using the old essay-style format. It has been carefully edited into the three-question format, with all of the original wording kept.

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