UK secondary
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School
Baylor University *
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Course
2401
Subject
Medicine
Date
Jan 9, 2024
Type
docx
Pages
8
Uploaded by MajorWater16798
1.
Why have you chosen to apply to the University of Kentucky College of Medicine? (1500 characters)
Growing up in rural Malaysia, I witnessed firsthand the challenges of accessing healthcare. As a child battling bronchitis, I vividly remember the late-night hour-long drives my mother undertook to reach the nearest hospital. With the lack of hospitals and doctor’s offices in rural Malaysia, parents of ailing children must travel great distances to
receive expert health care. These experiences instilled in me a deep commitment to serving underserved populations and addressing healthcare disparities. By attending UKCOM, I can expand my knowledge, refine my skills, and comprehensively prepare to tackle these issues effectively.
Additionally, my time at Berea College exposed me to the culturally rich region of Appalachia, reminiscent of the environment that shaped my childhood. This intersection of experiences sparked my hope to one day serve this region that reminds me of my childhood home. By combining my personal experiences, dedication to public health, and
the education I will receive at UKCOM, this hope will one day be a reality.
After conducting research at the Saha Cardiovascular Research Center and exploring the Lexington campus, I became even more enthusiastic about attending UKCOM. The collaborative atmosphere and integration of education, research, and clinical care within a
close-knit network of facilities affirmed my desire to attend UKCOM. Given my aspirations, UKCOM is the ideal institution for me to pursue my medical education and thrive as a future physician.
2.
The University of Kentucky College of Medicine's (UKCOM) mission statement promotes a diverse and inclusive environment that provides excellence in education, equitable health care, and transformative research to improve the health and wellness of Kentuckians and beyond. Please describe how your past experiences or future plans contribute to enriching and enhancing the learning environment at UKCOM. (1500 characters)
During my research internship at the Saha Cardiovascular Research Center, I collaborated
closely with a Chinese researcher who served as my mentor. Despite our different backgrounds, we quickly established a strong working relationship based on mutual respect and open communication. She guided me in learning various techniques and shared her experiences as an international student adapting to the lab environment. Witnessing the support she received from her fellow researchers, she made it a priority to extend the same patience, encouragement, and guidance to me.
I am grateful for her unwavering support and patience during the learning process, even when it took me a few weeks to grasp the analysis techniques. Our collaborative efforts focused on evaluating the efficacy of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells on mouse models, and our partnership yielded promising results. This experience exemplified the positive outcomes of an inclusive scientific community that values diverse perspectives.
I plan to carry forward the lessons from this research experience and contribute to fostering a diverse and inclusive learning environment. I recognize the significance of collaboration and open-mindedness in achieving excellence in education, equitable healthcare, and transformative research. By actively engaging with peers and faculty from different backgrounds, I aim to create an atmosphere where diverse perspectives are
valued and everyone feels supported in their pursuits.
3.
If you are a non Kentucky resident, you are required to elaborate on your Kentucky
ties if applicable (personal, familial e.g.) (optional) (700 characters) Although I currently live in Tennessee, my life in the US has been deeply intertwined with the state of Kentucky. I spent over four years living in Kentucky, forming lifelong friendships, and graduating from Berea College. Since my entire family resides in Malaysia, the friends and mentors I met at Berea College have become my invaluable support network. Recognizing the significance of this network in my academic success, attending medical school in Kentucky would be the optimal choice for me. Being near the
individuals who have played a pivotal role in my personal and academic growth would provide the support and encouragement I need to excel in my journey through medical school. 4.
Please elaborate on why this is your preferred campus. (700 characters) I have chosen Lexington as my preferred campus for pursuing my medical education due to its proximity to my alma mater, Berea College, where I have developed significant connections over four years. Additionally, my time spent in Lexington during the summer
of 2019 conducting research at the Saha Cardiovascular research center allowed me to forge valuable connections in the area. The convenience of having my support systems nearby makes Lexington an ideal place for my medical education. Moreover, the co-
location of six health science colleges on the same campus creates a collaborative and interprofessional environment that I am incredibly excited to be part of.
5.
What competencies and qualities do you feel a physician should possess? (1500 characters)
In addition to ability, physicians should also possess several essential competencies and qualities for excellent medical care, including availability and amiability. Availability: During my experiences in the PICU, I observed the significant impact a friendly face could have on patients and their families, as it helps create an atmosphere of
comfort and ease. These small gestures and acts of kindness also often make a significant difference. Physicians play a crucial role in patient care by being accessible, responsive, and prioritizing their patients' needs. They should be readily available to address concerns, offer guidance, and provide support. Amiability
:
As Dr. Kinder's scribe, I witnessed his remarkable display of compassion when delivering devastating news to a patient about the need for an above-the-knee amputation. He took the time to sit with her, attentively listening to her fears and concerns, involving her in decision-making, and respecting her autonomy and individual
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needs. It was a powerful demonstration of compassionate patient care in challenging circumstances. Demonstrating empathy, active listening, and a genuine interest in patients' well-being creates a comfortable environment where patients and peers share their concerns and collaborate in healthcare decisions.
These essential competencies, along with excellent communication skills, cultural competency, and ethical conduct, ensure that physicians deliver the highest standard of care to their patients.
6.
Describe a personal activity involving advocacy or civic engagement that has impacted your personal values about delivering equitable patient care. (2000 characters)
During my time as team captain, I had the opportunity to witness the profound impact of advocacy and support on individual growth and success. One of the most impactful experiences that significantly shaped my values about delivering equitable patient care involved my teammate "Levi." As a first-year chemistry major, Levi faced academic struggles affecting his performance on the team and overall well-being. The coaches considered removing Levi from the team
due to his declining academic and athletic performance. Recognizing his challenges, I stepped in and requested the coaches to allow me to work with Levi. I invited him to my TA hours, and we began addressing the hurdles he faced in his studies. I invested time and effort into understanding his individual learning needs and tailored my assistance accordingly. As the semester progressed, I witnessed a remarkable improvement in Levi's
grades and overall confidence. The lessons I learned from advocating for Levi directly translate to advocating for patients and delivering equitable patient care in a medical setting. Just as I took the initiative to support Levi and understand his unique needs, I will approach each patient with the same dedication and personalized attention. I will strive to foster a safe and trusting environment where patients feel comfortable sharing their concerns openly,
knowing they will be heard and respected. By advocating for patients, I can ensure that their voices are amplified, and their needs are met.
Furthermore, the experience with Levi reinforced the importance of collaboration and teamwork. In healthcare, delivering equitable patient care often requires an interdisciplinary approach. I will actively engage with a diverse team of healthcare professionals, collaborating to address each patient's
unique circumstances and challenges. This collaborative effort will ensure that patients receive comprehensive and holistic care considering their physical, emotional, and social well-being.
7.
Describe an experience or situation which made you feel grateful. (1500 characters)
One experience that genuinely made me feel grateful was the support and generosity I received from friends and their families during the Covid-19 pandemic. The Covid-19 outbreak abruptly disrupted my graduation plans, leaving me feeling isolated and uncertain about the future. The sudden campus evacuation forced me to find alternative accommodations, and since my family was residing in Malaysia, I found myself homeless. Some nights, I resorted to sleeping in my car, surrounded by all my belongings. However, with the kindness and compassion of several dear friends and their families, my situation quickly turned around. They selflessly opened their doors and offered me a place to stay, providing me with a safe and welcoming environment during those difficult months. Moving from one friend's home to another, I experienced firsthand the power of genuine friendship and the willingness of others to extend a helping hand in times of need. Their support not only alleviated my immediate concerns but also reminded me of the impact of human connection and reinforced my belief in the inherent goodness of people. This experience is a powerful reminder of the profound impact we can have on each other's lives through simple acts of kindness and support. This experience inspires me to pay forward the kindness I received by being there for others in their times of need.
8.
It is impossible to have predicted the drastic impact caused by the novel coronavirus
identified as COVID-19. Describe the effect you have witnessed of this pandemic on those around you. (1500 characters)
I have witnessed the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic both in the United States and Malaysia. Regardless of location, the toll of this virus on human lives has been heartbreaking. The fear of seeing my loved ones fall ill was inescapable, especially considering the limited access to healthcare resources in some areas. When my step-
father contracted the virus, we could not seek help as hospitals and quarantine centers were far too overwhelmed to admit more patients. Thankfully, he recovered, but the same
cannot be said for others who suffered worse outcomes.
The pandemic has also devastated livelihoods, including my mother's small cleaning business, which lost all its clients. Financial struggles have become a reality for many families, exacerbating existing disparities. Mental health has also suffered greatly. The fear surrounding SARS-CoV-2 itself, the fear of social interactions, and the uncertainty surrounding vaccines have taken a toll on individuals' well-being. Loneliness has become
increasingly prevalent as social distancing measures have limited human connections, which will undoubtedly have far-reaching implications in the future.
Empathy has become more crucial than ever in the face of these challenges. By listening, validating emotions, and providing a sense of connection, we can help alleviate some emotional burdens and foster resilience. It is imperative to unite to navigate these difficult
times, support one another, and work toward a brighter future.
9.
Please share unique, personally important, and/or challenging facts in your background, such as the quality of your early educational environment, socioeconomic status, culture, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, or life/work experiences. Please discuss how such factors have influenced your goals and preparation for a career in medicine. (2500 characters)
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Growing up in rural Malaysia, I experienced the harsh realities of racism and colorism, which have significantly influenced my perspective and commitment to promoting diversity and inclusivity throughout my life and medical career. As a child, I vividly remember the disappointment of being excluded from the school soccer team due to ethnic quotas and enduring discrimination because of my darker skin tone. In a society that values lighter skin and promotes skin whitening, I often felt the pressure to conform to societal beauty standards, resorting to using skin whitening products that subjected my skin to harsh chemicals, all in an effort to fit in.
These experiences left an indelible mark on my psyche, underscoring the injustices and biases that exist within society. As I grew older, I realized that despite my notable achievements academically and athletically, and my ongoing progress in both domains, an intangible barrier seemed to hinder me from reaching my full potential solely due to my skin color. Drawing from my experiences with colorism, I am committed to amplifying the voices of underrepresented individuals and pushing for increased diversity
in leadership roles and resources. I aspire to advocate for patients from all walks of life, working towards equitable healthcare for underserved communities.
Growing up in a single-parent household, financial struggles were a constant part of my life. I had limited access to healthcare due to the inability to afford essential needs like health insurance. Currently, I rely on government-subsidized health insurance since I cannot afford it, and my retired parents cannot provide financial support. These experiences have shaped my perspective on the importance of affordable healthcare and equal access to educational opportunities.
My transition from Malaysia to the US has given me a unique perspective that I am eager
to share to promote understanding and inclusivity at UKCOM and in my future career. The adversities I faced have fueled my desire to cultivate an inclusive and compassionate healthcare system that addresses the struggles faced by marginalized individuals and ensures their voices are heard, and their needs are met. By leveraging my experiences, I am determined to make a lasting impact by promoting diversity and advocating for equitable, culturally sensitive patient care.
10.
Describe a situation where you were not in the majority. (1500 characters)
At 16, I embarked on a journey to the US with my father, eagerly seeking fresh opportunities. However, the excitement of immersing myself in the American experience soon waned, replaced by a profound sense of alienation. Despite my proficiency in English, I found myself an outsider in school, surrounded by peers whose backgrounds and accents differed vastly from mine. Fearing ridicule for my accent, I withdrew from social interactions. Yet, a transformative moment arose when a fellow soccer teammate named "Bruce" extended a small yet profound act of kindness by offering me water after practice. This simple gesture sparked the beginning of a remarkable friendship. As I confided in Bruce about my struggles, he not only offered reassurance but also pushed me to step out of my comfort zone and embrace new experiences.
With a newfound determination, I began to forge connections and participate in social activities. Over time, I not only adapted to my new life in the US but thrived in it. Bruce's
kindness taught me the power of resilience and the profound impact of human connection. Navigating the challenges of being "the other" in a foreign land, I learned to embrace my uniqueness and grow from it. Through Bruce's friendship, I discovered the strength of genuine compassion and the importance of reaching out to those who might feel excluded or alone. This experience illuminated the beauty of diversity and the richness that emerges when we come together despite our differences.