Pediatrician Personal Statement

Up until a few short years ago, I admit that I was dead set on becoming a pediatrician. I knew from a young age that I really enjoyed working with kids, perhaps because I was the oldest of three in my family or because I always found myself volunteering for activities and projects that involved working with children. I was good with kids, and most of them seemed very comfortable around me. The idea of dedicating my future career to children just seemed to “fit.” As I made my way through college, I had the opportunity to participate in research and volunteering that solidified my decision to become a pediatric physician. During that time I also shadowed in a variety of pediatric sub-specialties including hematology/oncology, NICU, and palliative
Now, as I reflect on the past several years of educational as well as personal growth, I realize that my reasoning for pursuing pediatrics runs much deeper than a love of working with children (although that love remains and is stronger than ever). I continue to be drawn to the pediatric population because it offers me the opportunity to serve as a guide and role model for children. I love the idea of following kids as they grow up and become molded into adults, and I plan to establish solid, long-term relationships with children and their families that promote trust and lifelong health. My life experiences have shown me the importance of preventive medicine and early diagnosis, and I intend to serve on the front lines as a general pediatrician so that I may recognize, manage, and refer for conditions early on before they become serious problems. I plan to pay particular attention to at-risk children and those who are battling the early signs of mental illness, as I know from personal experience that resources are oftentimes limited for these populations. Most of all, I plan to be an advocate for all my future patients as I guide them through the most fundamental (and arguably treacherous) years of their lives. I cannot imagine having more of an impact in medicine than by leading and caring for those who will comprise our world’s