Hearing Reflective Account

Hearing is an extraordinary phenomenon. It allows us to experience the joy of music, the sounds of nature and is fundamental for communication - yet is often taken for granted. Having personally witnessed the deterioration of my grandfather's hearing, I have been able to appreciate how significantly impaired hearing can impact on one's quality of life. Tasks and interactions that were once so simple became strenuous without the aid of adequate hearing.

As I pondered further on the matter, I was struck by many questions regarding our hearing. How do we hear exactly? Why does our hearing deteriorate as we get grow older? How can we ensure patients maintain good hearing? I found the depth of these questions fascinating and thus, my interest to learn more about audiology grew. Whilst shadowing an audiologist, I witnessed initial consultation and the fitting and adjustment of hearing aids. What I found particularly interesting was following the use of an audiogram on one of the patients who, as
it transpired, had a greater hearing loss with the higher frequencies. Having a naturally higher pitched voice than the audiologist, we took it in turns to repeat the same sentence to the patient. It was amazing to see the difference in the patient's response to our voices. Witnessing this consultation allowed me to realise the importance of good communication skills to enable us to give the best possible care to the patient.

During the consultations it was also apparent how much the patients appreciated what he was doing and the trust they had in him. That itself made me very happy, as well as the immense job satisfaction. It is gratifying to know that one is making a difference in an individual's life. I understand how vital it is to gain a patient's trust in order to put them at ease. Having hearing impairment due to physiological changes as we grow up can impact upon individuals in many different ways. Therefore an empathetic nature is important.

Also by participating in extra-curricular activities such as helping out in parents evening, showing new students around the school, guiding students of the different subjects has not only enhanced my communication skills but has further allowed me to interact with different age groups. Advising students on the best subjects suitable for them demonstrates my decision making skills. The role of any healthcare professional is to provide the best care required for a patient is by making the right decisions.

Volunteering at the British Heart Foundation has also greatly improved my communication skills whilst having to cater to customers and advise them on purchases.
Interpersonal skills are essential in health care and I feel that my experiences have given me the skills to build a rapport with customers and communicate with them on a friendly and personal level. At the same time I enhanced my teamwork skills by working alongside a team of volunteers. I have also shown my ability to conduct independent work having done work experience at the pharmacy where a lot of the time I was in charge of jobs by myself. It even improved my organisational skills as I was given different tasks such as arranging the shop items in a certain pattern and arranging medicines carefully into the right order. Dealing with work like this requires high precision and accuracy just as when an audiologist adjusts hearing aids; it must be done carefully and accurately to ensure the best result for the
patient.

My extracurricular involvements are indications of my commitment and demonstrate that I am a hardworking and conscientious individual. I truly believe that my dedication and curiosity for the subject combined with these qualities will allow me to succeed in a career in audiology.