From an early age the combination of my fascination with science and the satisfaction I got from helping others inspired my desire to become a doctor. I am a very self-motivated individual and have studied hard throughout my education in pursuance of this ambition.  

I have a very strong academic background, particularly in science. I achieved A* A-level grades in Chemistry and Biology and received the Jan Kluyver Award for Physics. I particularly enjoyed the chance to explore the area of enzymes in greater depth through independent research for my A-level coursework. I chose to study medical physics in my A2 year and loved the opportunity it gave me to study the scientific functioning of medical procedures such as MRI scanners in more detail.

I also love exploring medical issues beyond the syllabus, such as by attending the Medlink course in Nottingham in December 2009. I particularly enjoyed observing the last hour of a surgery to correct a spinal deformation. I also try to keep up to date with medical developments by reading ‘New Scientist’ and am a registered member of the student BMJ. I am particularly interested by the current debates on the assisted dying of the terminally ill, and the development of stem cell treatments.

I have supplemented my academic interest in medicine with work experience, enabling me to observe the practical skills necessary to be a good doctor. In August 2009 I shadowed a consultant and his team in the stroke ward of St Richard’s Hospital, where I learnt the importance of teamwork, efficiency and decisiveness. I also spent 5 days in the Diabetes Centre where I was fascinated by the podiatrists’ understanding of lower limb pathology and admired their ability to empathise with patients. I particularly enjoyed sitting in with the consultant endocrinologist and learning about the process of diagnosis by analysing multiple test results alongside each other.

I have developed many of these important skills through participation in various voluntary projects. At school I acted as a ‘study buddy’ mentor for younger pupils. This responsibility taught me to be a good listener and improved my confidence when talking in front of a large group of people. I recently started volunteering at St Anthony’s School. I have developed the ability to communicate with those for whom it is difficult because they have Down’s syndrome or speech impediments by learning and using Makaton. I have a severely autistic younger brother so understand the importance of non-verbal communication and am very patient. I also volunteer at a nursing home, assisting with activities such as knitting club and chatting with them, with St John’s Ambulance as a first aider, and will soon start volunteering at St Richard’s Hospital. These experiences demonstrate my ability to communicate with a wide range of people, an essential skill in the medical profession.

My excellent time-management skills mean that I have always balanced my strong academic performance with a range of extra-curricular activities. I have completed Bronze, Silver and Gold Duke of Edinburgh Awards, which required both the ability to work well in a team and to lead it. I loved the challenges the expeditions presented, and the opportunity to work closely as a group. I also spent a year volunteering at my local planetarium where I dealt with customers on a regular basis. I have further developed my teamwork skills and the ability to motivate myself and others by representing my school in Basketball, Athletics and the orchestra, where I played lead guitar. I love art and often relax by painting or drawing. I plan to play an active role in university life, while maintaining a strong commitment to my studies. I am aware that Medicine is a tough degree and am prepared to work as hard as is necessary to achieve my goals.

Thank you for taking the time to read my application, I look forward to hearing from you.

From the team here we hope this sample helps to get you where you want to be.