I come from a remote village of Okhaldhunga in Nepal, where getting a quality education is still considered a big challenge. I was raised by my parents, who did not get a chance to go to school themselves, as they did not have enough finances to offer towards their education. Despite their struggle, they were headstrong in their commitment towards my education and made sure to give their unconditional love, virtues, and their unflinching sacrifice for my dream.
When I was in school, I remember one of my teachers mentioned that he underwent a heart surgery, which potentially saved his life. As a young student, I was stunned by this human ability to save another human. Even as a child, I was inquisitive and asked numerous questions that arose in my mind about heart, disease, and the surgery itself. Hearing my teacher describe his condition and the operation, I felt enlightened. From that day onward, I was certain, I wanted to become a doctor.
After excelling in school in my village, I had to move to the capital city for higher studies and better opportunities. Moving to a big city was definitely challenging. I did not know anyone and had to figure out my way. But I believed in my struggle and stayed focused despite the hardships. I managed to secure a full scholarship from the college which helped me immensely, as I did not have to worry about the finances. I threw myself on my purpose with my head and heart and I excelled in college too. My determination constantly pushed me forward and I strived to learn, practice and excel. Due to my sincere passion and hard work, I secured a Government Scholarship for Medical Education, through the Ministry of Education. My dream was curving into a finer shape. I was starting to become an example for every dreamer, with a hope that no matter where you are from; you can chase your dream.
I would like to share an experience which has left a lasting impression on my mind. During my clinical postings, there was a young patient in a semi-conscious state with a very slim chance of survival. Almost everybody had lost the hope. But the doctors, whom I consider as my idols had not. They diagnosed him with bacterial meningitis and treated with care and compassion in the Intensive Care Unit. Seeing his improvement with the glow in his face and the eternal happiness in the family after the continuous effort of the medical team for almost a week was really a thrilling experience. For me, it seemed to be a miracle, but for the doctors, they were just performing their duty.
During my internship, I was fascinated by the number of patients and diverse cases in Medicine. I was intrigued by the diagnostic challenge that each patient posed. As my professor said, I used to look for subtle clues, use my clinical acumen and discuss with seniors to break the puzzle in a sensible and logical manner to arrive at a diagnosis. This sparked my interest to explore in greater depth in Internal Medicine.
After graduation, working as an independent physician in rural Hospitals in underserved communities, I got the opportunity to delve deeper into the lives of people, witnessed ignorance, inaccessibility, and constraints to health care. I reached out to those less fortunate and worked on dispelling myths about diseases through awareness programs and health camps. The sincere appreciation from my patients and their families towards my work gives me a true sense of happiness and their confidence in me as a competent physician always inspires to serve more.
My interest in clinical research sparked when I took the initiative to find the cause of an outbreak of acute febrile illnesses in Khotang, a rural district in Nepal in June 2015. After researching various medical journals and scientific resources, I learned about emerging infectious diseases at our doors. When I looked for the ‘Eschar’, and the report of the serum sample I sent to the National Public Health Laboratory, eight out of eleven cases proved to be Scrub Typhus. After I reported it to the Department of Health, Epidemiology and Disease Control Division conducted an epidemiological survey and developed a national guideline for its management. Moving forward, coming to the United States for research has been an enlightening experience for me. I am working with enthusiastic researchers and infectious disease specialists at Rhode Island Hospital, as a research intern. These experiences have developed a spirit of inquiry and an interest in my future clinical research.
Also, during my externship- in Brooklyn and Queens NYC, I got exposure to a wide variety of patients from diverse communities and became culturally competent with a multi-ethnic population. I discovered the value of personalized and compassionate care to understand the illnesses, provide standard treatment and monitor their progress in a longitudinal sense. This was a great step towards experiencing the details of health care system of the United States and my further inclination towards Internal Medicine.
Considering the strongest healthcare system, leadership in clinical research and advanced diagnostic facilities in the United States, this is where I see my residency dream coming true. I wish to get trained in a program with diverse clinical exposures and excellent educational opportunities from friendly faculties and mentors. I hope to grow in my knowledge, skills, and humanistic attributes in a program where everyone thrives on team-work to provide the highest quality of patient care.
My prior clinical experiences, research, and academic growths have sharpened my talents, determination, and team spirit to succeed as a productive resident. Given my background and interests, I see myself pursuing fellowship and contributing to the field of clinical research. I will strive to become a competent physician and advocate for my patients especially those who need it most.
Therefore, with great pleasure, I look forward to bringing a true sense of commitment, enthusiasm, passion, and diligence to maintain the legacy of the residents that the program has produced, and the investment you put in every student. Thank you very much for your consideration.
