RADIOLOGY RESIDENCY PERSONAL STATEMENT

As I completed my clerkships, I  found that radiology was the only one that appealed to me as a career.   Three aspects captured my interest in pursuing a career in radiology.  One aspect was the fast pace.  Each day required working through a multitude of cases that required answers almost immediately.  The speed provided a flow that helped keep my focus sharp.  Another key aspect was the collegial atmosphere in the work area.  The radiologists I worked with had a camaraderie that encouraged tapping the skills and opinions of colleagues when needed.   It never felt uncomfortable or inappropriate to ask a question.  A final major aspect was the constant evolution that radiologists undergo during their career.  Similar to a typical workday, the vast array of new technologies and techniques being developed for non-invasive diagnosis and minimally invasive therapy provides everyone in the field something to catch their interest.  The opportunities to expand and learn as a professional continue to grow.  

           Radiology also plays to my strengths.  Figuring out a diagnosis from an abdominal CT with a history of “abdominal pain”, for example, requires creating a differential based upon that complaint and then correlating the visual evidence to provide a diagnosis. That interplay is similar to my undergraduate organic chemistry research since new reactions required developing possible product lists and then puzzling out which theoretical product turned into reality.  Both processes require cluing into patterns suggested by limited information, something radiologists engage in everyday.  My natural curiosity will also help in radiology.  The persistent advance of radiological technology makes inquisitiveness a vital trait in order to stay abreast of the changes.   The month I spent learning about CT colongraphy exemplifies my desire to begin explore new frontiers in

radiology.  During the project I learned how helical CT works and how to perform virtual colonoscopy exams starting from the patient prep to reading the exam.  Along with an interest in radiology, I also enjoy reading a variety of books in different fields, psychology to history, playing sports, and rooting for my favorite sports teams.  These outside interests will hopefully help me build a relationship with colleagues both within and outside the department.

            Looking forward, I am applying to programs with a strong research department and a supportive environment.  A strong research program provides exposure to the cutting edge developments in the field.  Since the radiology residency is a long process, it is important to be involved with departments who will be applying and introducing the next wave of developments.  Another important aspect is practicing in an environment that encourages free exchange between all members of the radiology team since residency will be the time to face clinical weaknesses head on.  A strong family network has always played in a big part in my life and residency is no exception.  Luckily my relatives live throughout the US, both Coasts and the Midwest, giving me the opportunity to base my decision strictly upon my comfort level with a program.  In the next four years in the right environment, I will make my lofty goal to become a great radiologist.