I view pharmacy as a challenging and exciting career. I believe pharmacists are vital to healthcare in today's society as health practitioners. Their understanding of the pharmaceutical sciences ensures that the drugs are used to maximum benefit in disease prevention and patient treatment by health professionals. I am eager to specialise in this subject with a specific interest in the placebo effect and how drugs can not only affect us physically and mentally, but socially too. I have enjoyed the various aspects of my chemistry course particularly on my A2 course; however the organic chemistry topics have interested me the most. I especially liked organic synthesis because it allows you to make complex chemicals such as drugs from very simple materials. Whilst studying mathematics and physics, I have gained an understanding of the need to apply new concepts accurately quickly, easily and effectively. I believe these key skills will be essential in the study of pharmacy. Having thoroughly enjoyed the academic study of chemistry, physics and mathematics, I have chosen a degree that will enable me to combine theory with a practical application.
My work experience at a local pharmacy was an enjoyable and challenging experience. I observed the formulation of medicines and learnt about the precision and responsibility with which pharmacists must work. I also learnt how to dispense prescriptions and use the computer to check for possible interactions with other drugs, correct dosages and print labels for prescriptions. I was also fortunate enough to give advice to customers and indicate possible side effects their medication may have. My work experience gave me a valuable insight to my degree area and confirmed that pharmacy is a degree that I will thoroughly enjoy. I have had the opportunity to visit AstraZeneca, the Avlon site, in Avonmouth last year, where I saw how drugs were manufactured on an industrial scale; it was simply fascinating to watch. To widen my view of the field I try keep up to date with recent developments by enlightening myself with the pharmaceutical journals.
In addition to my academic studies, I have always enjoyed undertaking sports like badminton and squash and am currently learning to swim at my local sports centre every weekend. I have also completed the Bath half marathon last year in March 2007. I am fully conversant in the use of computers and have used them to them to maintain a website and research subjects on the internet. I have also held the responsibility of being a house prefect which has developed my speaking, listening, time management and leadership skills. I have mentored a year 11 student thought his GCSE year helping him with exam strategies and organisation skills. This has refined my communication skills and makes me feel like a respected member of the 6th form.
As didn't quite reach my predicted grades in my A-levels, I have chosen to retake some modules during my gap year in order to meet them. In addition to this I started full-time employment in Lloyd's pharmacy where I am progressing with my dispensing assistant course. I feel that this should significantly enhance my skills for application required by a pharmacist. This should furthermore enable me to develop into a more confident person.
Pharmacy is a subject which has greatly intrigued me for most of my life. I will bring determination and enthusiasm to my studies and feel I can do well in the university environment; enabling me to express my capabilities in their entirety. I am determined to achieve my long held ambition to become a pharmacist and to enjoy the stimulation that this career offers.
