医药和生物医学科学PS.

　　For a long time, I have been captivated by the science of medicine and the amazing chemistry and biology of the human body. This is a love that has been enhanced by extensive reading of a wide range of texts; from journals such as The Lancet, BMJ, sBMJ and Scientific American and New Scientist, to medical rerence books and books on the history of medicine. This love of medical science is a main aspect that draws me to this course, coupled with the challenge of this route and the desire for a rewarding and worthwhile career.

　　I had one week’s work experience at QEII Hospital, where I was able to observe many aspects of the hospital and medical teams, in many departments, including anæsthesia, bronchoscopy, surgery both in main theatres and simple day surgery, MRI scans and post scan diagnosis, early pregnancy and gynaecology, and sitting in with a respiratory consultant in an outpatient clinic. In this last placement, I learnt a great deal about doctor-patient interactions, and about many disorders of the pulmonary system. I was allowed to examine a patient with a pulse-oximeter, a sphygmomanometer and a stethoscope whilst the doctor instructed me in diagnostic technique. During the week I came into contact with some remarkable patients and some inspirational doctors, and it has served to greatly increase my desire to follow this path in life. I have also organised at some point to assist the local District Nurse on home visits.

　　I have decided to take a gap year, in which I can gain incredibly valuable clinical experience. During my time at the QEII, I was able to consult with personnel officers in the Human Resources department and I will be able to secure a position as a health care assistant after leaving sixth form.

　　I was a member of the Sea Cadet Corps (SCC) for three years, bore leaving to focus more on my academic studies. During this time I learned invaluable skills such as discipline and the importance of teamwork. I also accumulated several SCC qualifications, in diverse areas such as drill command, boat work (sailing, power, kayaking and rowing), catering, electrical and marine engineering, music and campcraft. I achieved a First Aid qualification of SCC 1st class and Royal Naval Lv. 2, equivalent to a St. John’s Ambulance First Aid at Work qualification; this lead to me being put in a position of responsibility, I was one of the appointed first aiders at the cadet unit, and when on expeditions I acted as first aider in the field. These three years have imbued me with a strong sense of teamwork and leadership, qualities I believe to be invaluable in a potential medic.

　　I am a very diligent and dedicated student, and I hope to extend this commitment to studying medicine. I will be pursuing further work experience and continuing my personal study, and I trust that this will truly enhance my experience at University. I fully accept that studying medicine is a life-long commitment, and full of opportunities and daily challenges; I look forward to facing them.