I was first attracted to studying medicine by the opportunity to positively impact lives through problem solving and the application of science. A dynamic and stimulating vocation, this will allow me to satisfy my curiosity for human physiology and the causes of diseases. I completed an internship in a cardiology team and was able to see the extent of the demands placed on hospital doctors. I was fascinated by 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 should not be banned'?Get an original essayConversations with the junior doctors reinforced the high demands of the job and the impact this has on personal lives. I enjoyed shadowing a GP, which showed me the broad responsibilities of primary care; from consultations to home visits. I now appreciate the diversity of situations GPs face, their time management skills and their ability to adapt their way and approach to healthcare. A key example is a palliative care situation where a holistic strategy has been adopted to improve the patient's quality of life. The opportunity to participate in presentations given by pharmaceutical representatives highlighted my interest in the continued advancements of medicine. Volunteering in a hospital made me realize how many professions contribute to a patient's journey. The experience of the emergency room in winter demonstrated the volume of patients admitted and the pressure that this can cause. Through my interaction with patients, I learned what they value about the service provided by the NHS. I faced the challenge of overcoming language and cultural barriers by 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 providing respite care for children with additional needs and limited communication demonstrated how children adapt to the use of non-verbal styles. , like 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 presents for carers, which put highlights the key problem of our aging population. I enjoyed Atul Gawande's exploration of caring for the elderly in “Being Mortal” because it made me think about priorities and challenges, particularly in terms of autonomy. Inspired by a research topic in class, I wrote an article on the benefits and challenges of fortification and water. chlorination which was published in Medic Mentor Magazine. This self-directed learning required effective time management and research of numerous technical articles. To further explore developments in the medical field, I took a MOOC on new cancer drugs and found reading medical journals about possible future treatments fascinating. I enjoy running lessons and sporting activities for young 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 diversity of behaviors and adapt to situations. In my roles as mediator and prefect,..