I vividly remember the day she fell ill. My aunt was vibrant, always the life of the party. Her sudden illness and quick decline left us all in shock. Despite the best efforts of healthcare professionals, she passed away. The loss was devastating, and it left me questioning if more could have been done to help her.

These therapeutic thoughts became the driving force behind my decision to pursue medicine. I wanted to understand illnesses, provide care, and prevent others from experiencing the pain my family endured. 

My journey to medical school wasn't straightforward. It took over four years of rigorous studying, countless exams, and volunteer work at local clinics to build my profile. I faced rejection from several medical schools before finally receiving an acceptance letter. Each rejection was disheartening, but I persevered through my passion and determination.

Once in medical school, I encountered a steep learning curve. The hours were long, and the workload was intense. I spent many sleepless nights studying, practicing clinical skills, and shadowing experienced doctors. However, these challenges only strengthened my resolve. 

One of my most memorable experiences was during my clinical rotations. I had the opportunity to assist in a surgery to remove a knife from a patient’s back and suturing the wound. Witnessing the transformation from illness to recovery was awe-inspiring. It reminded me of the incredible impact doctors can have on people's lives.

Talking to patients has been another enriching part of my journey. I've heard stories of resilience, courage, and hope that have inspired me. It's a humbling experience to be trusted with someone's health and well-being.

Additionally, I've been involved in research projects exploring complementary and alternative treatments and preventive measures. Collaborating with fellow students from different universities in South Africa and professors to contribute to medical knowledge has been rewarding. I believe that continuous learning and innovation are crucial to improving patient care.

I chose to study medicine because I want to make a tangible difference in people's lives. The loss of my aunt made me realise the importance of healthcare and inspired me to dedicate my life to helping others. Despite the challenges and sacrifices, I'm excited about the opportunities ahead to learn, grow, and positively impact the world of healthcare. The ultimate reward will be seeing patients recover and thrive, knowing that I played a part in their journey to health.