The problems of our society, particularly those related to health care delivery, are numerous. Solutions to these problems will arise from individuals who have a broad view of society and the will to contribute their talents to society. I feel that I possess these qualities and can best contribute my talents to society as a physician.
It was as a junior in high school that I began to consider pursuing a career in medicine. I decided to participate in Project SOAI{, a summer premedical program at Xavier. As a participant in Project SOAR, I had the opportunity to learn about medicine by speaking to students who had been accepted by medical schools. By exposing me to college-level work and successful premedical students, whose academic backgrounds were similar to my own, SOAR enhanced my confidence in my academic ability and encouraged me to pursue a career in medicine.
During my senior year in high school, I enrolled as a part- time student in the Concurrent Admissions program at Xavier, where I attended six semester hours of credit. My experiences in Project SOAR and in the Concurrent Admissions program influenced my decision to matriculate at Xavier, full-time, as a chemistry major.
Pursuing a career in medicine is a challenge that should be undertaken only by persons who have a genuine interest in health care. I have learned that I would enjoy working as a physician to improve the quality of health care in our society. My experience in the 1984 United Negro College Fund Summer Premedical Institute affirmed my interest in medicine and provided me with information about a variety of exciting medical careers. I will participate in the 1986 Summer Research Fellowship Program at the Cornell University Medical College, where my research assignment will involve nuclear medicine. Clinical exposure is also a component of the program. I look forward to the experience, since it should provide me with a better understanding of the role of research in medicine.