Sample 3
I have been confident in my decision to pursue a career in radiology since the first year of my undergraduate program in medicine at Memorial University of Newfoundland. I initially became interested in radiology during classroom lectures given by radiologists during the undergraduate program. My interest compelled me to further investigate radiology as a possible career choice. Accordingly, I completed my first clerkship elective in the Department of Radiology at the Health Sciences Centre in St. John’s. During this elective I realized that radiology incorporates therapeutic as well as diagnostic dimensions, demanding excellence in technical skill and academic knowledge. I observed multiple procedures and was given an opportunity to assist during an angiography procedure. I was impressed by the outstanding communication skills demonstrated by the radiologists in their interactions with patients, especially their ability to comfort patients during complicated procedures. During this elective, I became aware of the intricate role that radiologists play in patient care and it became apparent that this role requires the ability to adapt to a diversity of challenging situations. I was also given an opportunity to pursue my interest in research by helping to develop a joint project between radiology and nuclear medicine which is designed to investigate the regional deposition of cigar smoke particles in the human lung. At the end of this elective I was fully convinced to pursue a career in radiology. To gain a better feel for the scope and challenge of the specialty, I completed additional electives in general radiology as well as pediatric imaging. I also completed general radiology electives at St. Joseph’s Hospital, McMaster University, and at the Kingston General Hospital, Queen’s University.
I am a personable, energetic and hard-working person. I have always been active in social and athletic events and I enjoy a challenge. I was raised in a family that has always placed great emphasis on hard work, commitment, and strong family ties. As a testament to this background, I like to see all tasks to completion and I take great pride in a job well done.
There are numerous reasons for my preference for the radiology program at Memorial. I am aware that MUN has a national reputation for training residents in becoming radiologists of the highest caliber. I understand from my personal acquaintances with many of the residents that there is a high level of satisfaction within the program and that there is plenty of opportunity to learn and practice technical skills. My elective experiences have allowed me to see first hand the positive staff-resident relations and the outstanding commitment of all individuals to academic and clinical excellence. I would be very proud to be part of this environment. In addition, I was born and raised in Newfoundland and I would very much like to continue to make this my home. I have a very strong network of family and friends here and I would like to remain here to practice radiology following graduation. Newfoundland has always provided me with the opportunity to pursue my favorite outdoor activities including fishing, canoeing and hiking. In my opinion, no other radiology residency program can match what your program has to offer me.
In summary, I firmly believe that I possess the qualities required to excel in your radiology program. I have demonstrated academic excellence and technical potential during my undergraduate career in medicine. I am hard-working and conscientious, qualities which are essential to succeeding in this very demanding specialty. I have a history of excelling as a team player. My commitment to your residency program is reflected in my research and elective work. I am confident and excited with my career choice and location.
