Residency Ob/GYN, Chinese, Research

It was my first break since I entered medical school and I was on the train from Shanghai to my hometown. The train was full of people going home for the Spring Festival. I was relaxed comfortable and happy. Suddenly, I heard an announcement over the train’s speaker system. “Emergency medical services needed urgently. If you are a physician or nurse, please come to help.” I stood up instantly to my own surprise. I felt the obligation to help but I was very apprehensive not knowing if I would be able to do so. I had just finished my first semester in medical school. My medical knowledge was rudimentary but the sense of responsibility overcame my nerves and so I went to see if I could help. I was directed to the patient to find another physician was already with her. The patient was a young lady in her twenties; she had severe abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding. After obtaining some history, the physician decided that these might be the symptoms of a miscarriage. Then he asked the patient to lie down, relax and breathe deeply. I stood there anxiously, not knowing what to do. He noticed my edginess, smiled and asked me if I would try to contact the medical emergency services in the next city on the train’s route. I did so and the patient was soon on her way to hospital. I don’t know whether that lady lost her baby or not. Many years have passed, but once in a while I still think of this experience. I wasn’t able to help that patient a lot but from that moment I found myself beside the patient, I understood how important the presence of a caring physician can be. I want to be a physician who is confident in providing care in any circumstances, knowing that I am always ready and able to help. This experience also fired a passionate interest in obstetrics and gynecology that continues.

 It is some years since I worked with patients, though this was not from choice.  I have worked for the most part in research and in Pharmacy and have enjoyed and excelled in both areas. However, I now want very much to prepare myself to treat patients directly, as an Ob/Gyn specialist.

 I completed my residency at the Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University and I loved the experience. After moving to the US, my choices were limited and I turned to my other great interest, research. In China, I saw children born with serious defects due to inappropriate medication or alcohol abuse and found this heart-rending. My own nephew was born with a significant developmental brain disorder and so I have personal experience of the suffering involved. Consequently, I have developed a great interest in preventative medicine and want to ensure that my future patients are properly educated for their own sake and that of their babies.




 I know that there will be many well qualified applicants for a residency in this popular specialty. However I do believe that I am an excellent candidate. I am a highly experienced and skilled researcher and have undertaken research directly related to the specialty and I have the characteristics to enable me to become an excellent, empathetic and effective practitioner. My main recommendation is a long held love for this specialty and ambition to pursue it.

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