PATHOLOGY RESIDENCY PERSONAL STATEMENT

My interest in Pathology originates in the diagnostic nature of the field. Pathology provides interpretation of laboratory results, selection of diagnostic tests, monitoring of surgical judgments, and the introduction of new diagnostic modalities. Pathology is critical to optimal patient care, as successful outcomes begin with a correct diagnosis. During my clinical clerkships, I was impressed with the importance of Pathology as a specialty when I witnesses surgeons anxiously waiting in the OR for results of a frozen section to determine the type and extent of surgical resection or physicians waiting for biopsy results to determine a course of treatment. The magnificent rewards of Pathology quickly became obvious to me. However, later I also realized that a pathologist’s mistake could be harmful to patient outcome. I saw that the rewards of Pathology could only be based on early, precise diagnosis that requires critical qualities: careful workup and logical thinking. Growing up reading detective stories contributed to helping me to learn the necessary qualities of a successful pathologist. Drawn to the emotional rewards of diagnosing things my peers found puzzling gave me more confidence to pursue Pathology. [Great! Jumps right in and explains the desire to pursue the field]

After medical school, I spent six years in a Pathology training program. These six years established the solid foundation of my career in Pathology. During my rotations in anatomic and clinical pathology I found that the hard work was not a burden, but a pleasure. Each rotation provided intense hands-on learning and was fulfilled. I also participated in teaching Pathology to medical school students, which helped me to improve my communication skills and to understand this field in more depth. I completed two research projects involving cancer research, which lead to the prizes from the Ministry of Health and State Science & Technology Commission.

As an assistant professor at the Cancer Institute outside the US, I was frustrated with the classic methods of cancer diagnosis. Many patients already had metastatic disease at diagnosis. I felt it was our obligation to improve the methods. At that time that I developed a strong desire to seek molecular markers for the early diagnosis and the prediction of progression of cancer and I moved to the US to conduct studies in this area. My pathology background greatly helped me to carry out these studies. During this period of time, my writing skills and communication skills have became more professional. I presented the data at conferences and meetings and contributed several published papers. Through these studies I have gained the increasing knowledge of the molecular basis of cancer and learned how to translate the knowledge into tools for clinical diagnosis.

I will make an excellent pathologist for several reasons. I possess strong clinical knowledge, research skills, and a passion for Pathology. As a logical thinker I can solve problems independently. In addition, I am the type of person who flourishes when challenged. The ability to accommodate to the diversity of diagnostic specimens forces me to be remaining knowledgeable and up to date in many medical disciplines. Finally, I am a team player who enjoys working with others. My background of comprehensive pathology training, research experience, and working as a pathologist indicates my capability and dedication, and makes me an ideal candidate for a pathology residency program.

My career goal is to be a clinical pathologist, an independent investigator, and a teacher of residents and students. I look forward to the satisfaction of undertaking specialized training and education, which combined with my personal abilities will allow me to contribute to the prolongation of life and to the alleviation of suffering in others.