IndexEmbracing what it means to be a doctorLessons from the doctor's experienceDeveloping skills outside the classroomEmbracing what it means to be a doctorI am intrigued by the complexity of human physiology and what it means to be a doctor, not only the interdependence of organs and systems but also the essential control of drugs in place, which greatly attracted me to the field of medicine. Furthermore, the ability to put scientific principles into practice and positively transform people's lives encapsulates, for me, the true ethics of medicine and is why I chose it as my vocation. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay I consider the first step of treatment to be that of trust between a doctor and a patient. An empathetic and sensitive appreciation of patients' feelings is vital to the progress of treatment, as I have learned from my work at the GP. I saw a patient with depression who was given the choice of how to manage the illness, the GP explained the disadvantages and advantages of CBT and antidepressants. This showed me how the patient's autonomy is respected. Lessons from the Doctor's Experience During my work experience at a local hospital, I spent most of my time in geriatrics and observed a very holistic approach to assisting patient recovery. I shadowed a consultant on his rounds around the ward after MDT meetings which put into perspective how integral teamwork is to the progress of treatment. Doctors have many responsibilities and must perform a multitude of tasks; communication is always key. For example, during my time at CDU, lead counselors had to file a lawsuit against social services for providing care to a patient who had arrived with severe weight loss and limited mental capacity. This is a clear example of how doctors must effectively support and justify their claims across organizational boundaries and highlights one of the many problems doctors face. My work experience strengthened my determination to study medicine. I was recently admitted to the intensive care unit at Royal Marsden, as my mother underwent a bowel cancer operation, which led to life-threatening complications. It was through this experience that I understood the reality of what it means to be a doctor and my appreciation for the medical profession is that much greater. Since my mother was operated on by the Da Vinci robot, I have been able to see firsthand the revolutionary role of technology in medicine. To deepen my understanding of this nascent field, I enrolled in an online course on “MedTech: AI and Robotics in Medicine.” I am also part of a Journal Club at school where I present articles about new technologies that help advance medicine and improve patient outcomes. In addition to the curriculum, I like to challenge myself and engage in science, which is why I have received prizes in the Biology Olympiad and the Cambridge Chemistry Challenge. For the past two years I have been volunteering in a nursing home where I regularly and actively encourage residents to have conversations, play games and solve puzzles. Many are inarticulate and can become very emotional very quickly. I developed the patience to listen and understand these elderly residents. Likewise, I peer tutor girls in my school, helping them with academic and social issues. As a result, I developed my skills.