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 where I felt I had been most effective. Apart from an academic interest in neurological conditions, 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 terribly 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 a young child, and his main concern was that he would be able to continue working to support them. I explained his problem, treatment options, and outcome; I gave preventative advice and answered many of his questions. By the end of our consultation, he had relaxed to the point that he was smiling; and fully recovered. This event is exemplary, for me, as a testimony to the importance of providing patients with an adequate education concerning the challenges they face and the options they have to empower them. 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 extremely 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 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 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 was highly informative and has fully confirmed my choice. Thus, I 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 volunteer activities that demonstrate that I genuinely care about people, helping to improve their lives as far as it lies within my power. I have felt incredibly honored 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 am an exceptional candidate. My excellent academic record is evidence of my diligence and intelligence; I possess the personal characteristics and attitude required of a first-class physician and neurologist. 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 neurological conditions.
Neurology Residency Personal Statement