The complexities and workings of the human body is one of the few wonders we have yet to fully discover and explore. There are so many organs and mechanisms designed to carry out a function in a particular way. Working in a laboratory has always been interesting for me as it allows you to immerse yourself in finding out how and why things work the way they do. Further research into the human body, by analysing tissue and fluid samples, and what it can do is something I wish to build a career upon, and it is for this reason among others that I have chosen to study biomedical science at university level.

Through completing further reading of advancements in the biomedical science field, I gained more perspective into the extent of research being done into the infection and blood sciences, in particular, the study of medical microbiology and virology. Watching ‘Transplant Cells, Not Organs’ by Susan Lim interested me as it focused on the ordeal of collecting organs from prisoners who had consented to organ donations after their death sentence.

The medical ethics of organ donation was explored in this talk and it allowed me to consider the moral dilemmas associated with working in biomedical science. From ‘The Concise Human Body Book: An Illustrated Guide to Its Structure, Function and Disorders’ by Dorling Kindersley, I learnt a great deal more about the human body and the complexity of its mechanic, physical and physiological workings; specifically in the field of haematology in order to identify abnormalities to diagnose certain medical conditions.

In order to gain a greater insight into the profession, I organised an eight week work experience at both Lincoln County and St. Helier Hospital. During this two month placement, I spent the majority of my time in the NHS Pathology departments. I was fortunate enough to be given the opportunity to shadow the leading histopathology consultant. This included attending weekly meetings where the consultants and senior health officers discussed the specimens. One of the most striking experiences for me was a laboratory placement where I was able to observe a haematologist as they performed diagnostic lumbar punctures and interpreted the morphology of bone marrow. This experience enabled me to differentiate between normal and abnormal bodily functions and reinforced my desire to work in this field. I was able to gain substantial knowledge into the pathological and clinical aspects of disease. Also, I was fortunate enough to observe the examination and dissection of surgical resection specimens and the microscopic examination of tissues.

From my experience at Lincoln County, I was determined to further my understanding of pathology. This led me to complete a further three weeks work experience in haematology and biochemistry laboratories at St Helier. During this placement, I was able to obtain a deeper knowledge of vital bodily fluids by carrying out fine needle aspirations.

It became apparent that my interest lies in histopathology, however, as the advancement of science means we can tell so much about a death from what the victim has in their stomach or under their fingernails, for example. In addition to my academic commitments, I volunteer weekly at Rainbows girl guiding and at a local care home. Working with young people is challenging. This experience has enabled me to think logically when faced with a problem and to be open-minded to learning from experiences. It has also allowed me to use my initiative when planning activities, such as baking cupcakes and going on nature trails. By helping others in my voluntary work, I was given a level of responsibility and had the opportunity to lead others to carry out tasks, which enabled me to improve my interpersonal and leadership abilities. These qualities, along with my drive, persistence and goal-oriented ambitions, provide a solid foundation for which to build upon at university level and later on in my career.