PEDS RESIDENCY PERSONAL STATEMENT

Pediatrics, more than any other field of medicine, encompasses the characteristics which I find to be most paramount in medicine. Working with young children and adolescents will give me the opportunity to perform those duties, which I feel are essential to being a good Pediatrician. My goals are to be the best physician possible, an advocate for children, and to support and teach children as they grow and mature. The impact that a Pediatrician can have on their patients is tremendous, and fostering a trusting relationship in which the child can depend on the physician is a fundamental feature in providing patient education and support.

Children are the most fascinating people. They have active imaginations and can get lost in a fantasy, which pulls others in. Their sense of freedom and playfulness can't help but bring a smile to your face and encourage creativity. I have spent time sitting on the floor, but found myself in a far-away land with astronauts and aliens, or in the middle of a dinosaur excavation. All children possess this creativity, and encouraging it will help the child embrace it even into adulthood.

Unfortunately, there are many children who have not had the same opportunities which I have been offered throughout my childhood. These are the children who may benefit the most from a caring physician who can be an advocate for the child and someone they can trust in difficult times. One of the most eye-opening experiences I have had took place during my psychiatry rotation.. I encountered a 10 year-old girl who lived with her mother, aunt, and brother. When this girl perceived the other members of her family ignoring her, she would become violent to the point where she has broken chairs over her brother's back and thrown knives at her mother. Seeing these children suffer emotionally draws me closer to them. I find that I am obligated to help them in some way, whether it is personally, or getting them a more experienced professional to help guide them through their problems.

Perhaps the most important role as a Pediatrician is that of teacher. Educating children not only to what illness they may be feeling, but also to a healthy lifestyle, and even the proper way to conduct themselves helps them to gain confidence in themselves and foster self esteem. Many children are involved in extracurricular activities, especially sports. I found the playing field to be an excellent opportunity to teach children the rules of fair play, sportsmanship, and etiquette as an umpire in my local little league for eleven years. In the last year, I assumed the Umpire in Chief position, which fostered additional responsibility in teaching young umpires. Through this, and the two summers that I spent as an assistant coach, I feel as though I was able to instill those values in the kids. Many view the role of the umpire as confrontational, but I saw it as an opportunity to teach.If a pitcher make an illegal motion I would stop the play and show the pitcher what needed to be fixed. This led to fewer arguments and a better sense of understanding for the game on the part of the children. When kids see that people are trying to help rather than criticize them, they will take suggestion, instruction, and develop a sense of trust of authority figures, one of which is their physician.

Beginning my post-graduate training, I am looking to enter a program which fosters a sense of teamwork among its staff. Patients receive better care when the doctors work as a team and communicate opinions and treatment options with each other. Additionally, I am looking to train in a program that will prepare me for clinic practice as well as emergent or in-patient care. My current plans involve investigating a possible career in Pediatric Endocrinology. However, I am first looking to become a well-rounded physician, able to treat illness in any of the pediatric specialties. I wish to continue to develop skills that will enable strong relationships between my patients and myself, so that I am able to attain my goals as a Pediatrician.