At the end of my internships, I considered the different specialties to which I had been exposed and concluded that my work in the Neurology Ward had been the most satisfying and was the place in which I felt that I had been most effective. Apart from an academic interest in neurological conditions, I found that I had a facility to soothe and reassure Neurology patients who are often very distressed and anxious, especially when they first arrive.
On one occasion, I had been delegated by my very busy program director to attend to a young stroke patient who had just been admitted. I was given a brief explanation of the patient’s condition and then met the patient. He was highly distressed, anxious, and agitated. He had a wife and young child, and his main concern was that he would be able to continue working to support them. I explained his problem, possible treatment options, and the likely outcome; I gave preventative advice, and I answered his many questions. By the end of our consultation, he had relaxed to the point that he was smiling; and he had fully recovered. This event is exemplary, for me, as a testimony to the importance of providing patients with an adequate education concerning the challenges that they face and the options that they have, in such a way as they are empowered to act on their understanding of patients—a tall order. I see this educative role as especially important with Neurology patients, and I have given my all to develop exemplary skills in this area.
I am very interested in the considerable research being undertaken into conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease and Multiple Sclerosis, which are currently incurable. I hope to be involved in research and clinical trials and play a part in finding and applying new treatments for such conditions. I also stay very current concerning the rapidly increasing number of dementia patients that we treat as Neurologists and especially look forward to challenges in this area.
I undertook my Master’s in Public Health to gain professional maturity and stature and to further prepare myself to give my all to a residency program. Earning my MPH was a most enriching experience; it has equipped me with especially invaluable knowledge about preventative medicine and substantial familiarization with the medical environment in the US. I have also been able to ‘shadow’ five neurologists since January. This has been highly informative and has fully confirmed me in my choice. Thus, I now feel well prepared to commence and complete a successful residency in Neurology. My long-term goal is to become an excellent neurologist practicing, researching, and teaching in a teaching hospital.
I have undertaken many, varied volunteer activity that demonstrates that I genuinely care about people and improve their lives as far as it lies within my power. Much of this experience is directly relevant to my application. I have felt incredibly honored by the fact that Dr. XXXX, Associate Professor and Director of the Parkinson’s Disease Research Institute at XXXX University Hospital, accepted me to work with her research team as a voluntary research assistant.
I know that there will be many well-qualified applicants for residency positions. However, I believe that I am an exceptional candidate. My excellent academic record is evidence of my diligence and intelligence; I feel that I possess the personal characteristics and attitude required of a first-class physician and neurologist, and I am eager to join a challenging and stimulating program where I might have the opportunity to assist with research projects. I have a great passion for my chosen specialty, matched only by my dedication to providing excellent care to patients suffering from all kinds of neurological conditions.
