I was first drawn to studying medicine by the opportunity to positively impact lives through problem solving and the application of science. Being a dynamic and stimulating vocation, it will allow me to satisfy my curiosity towards human physiology and the causes of disease. I acquired an internship with a cardiology team and observed the breadth of demands placed on hospital doctors. I was fascinated by observing the operations in the capture lab and how the system handles both emergency and elective procedures. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay Conversations with junior doctors reinforced the high demands of the job and the impact this has on personal lives. I enjoyed shadowing a family doctor, who showed me the broad responsibilities of primary care; from consultations to home visits. I now appreciate the different situations family doctors face, their time management skills, and ability to adapt their ways and approach to healthcare. A key example was a palliative care situation where a holistic strategy was adopted to improve the patient's quality of life. The opportunity to attend presentations given by pharmaceutical representatives underlined my interest in the continued advancements of medicine. Volunteering in a hospital has increased my awareness of how many professions contribute to a patient's journey. The experience of the emergency plan in winter has demonstrated the volume of patients admitted and the pressure this can cause. Through my interaction with patients, I have learned what they value in the NHS service provided. I took on the challenge of overcoming language and cultural barriers while volunteering with autistic children in Vietnam. My ability to interact with people with special needs improved and I learned from teachers how to keep children focused. Working with a UK charity that provides respite care for children with additional needs and limited communication has demonstrated how children adapt to using non-verbal styles, such as Makaton. In an aged care home, I also experienced the communication difficulties that arise later in life due to aging and dementia and the challenge this poses for carers, which highlighted the key issue of the aging of our population. I enjoyed Atul Gawande's exploration of elder care in "Being Mortal" as it made me think about priorities and challenges, particularly in terms of autonomy. Inspired by a classroom research topic, I wrote an article on the benefits and problems of water fortification and chlorination that was published in Medic Mentor Magazine. This self-directed learning required effective time management and researching numerous technical documents. To further explore developments in the medical field, I completed a MOOC on new cancer drugs and found it fascinating to read medical journals about possible future treatments. I enjoy leading sports lessons and activities for younger children, some with cerebral palsy, as part of my Level 3 Sports Leadership award. Through this, I have developed my communication and leadership skills, my ability to manage a series of behaviors and adapting to situations. In my roles as peer mediator and prefect, I supported younger students by resolving conflicts with empathy and sensitivity. Keep in mind:.