How to write the Personal Statement

1) We are looking for a compelling personal statement that conveys something distinctive about you or your life story and why you are interested in biomedical research and participation in the research program. Please also indicate if you have a preference for basic science or clinical research, or preference for any particular area(s) of research performed at MWRI.

Example 1

“You think this much air is getting through your lungs.”

The doctor held his hands far apart, illustrating a wide opening.

“But in reality, it’s this much.”

He pinched his fingers together, leaving barely any space.

This was the explanation given to my mother during what should have been a routine check-up. For months, she had described difficulty breathing and constant fatigue, yet her concerns were often dismissed as pregnancy-related symptoms. She persisted, pushing for more tests until a pulmonologist finally uncovered the truth: she had a severe airway obstruction caused by a rare condition aggravated by pregnancy. Thanks to the quick actions of specialists at Magee Women’s Hospital, she underwent an emergency procedure that saved both her and her unborn child—me.

This summer marks 18 years since that life-altering experience for my family, and my own 18th birthday. My story could have ended very differently, but it didn’t, thanks to the relentless advocacy of my mother and the compassionate expertise of her doctors.

As you might imagine, this personal history has shaped my passion for medicine. I was born prematurely and spent weeks in the NICU at Magee, while my mother recovered from her surgery nearby. These experiences have instilled in me a deep respect for the intersection of research and patient care and a desire to contribute to this field myself.

My specific interest lies in clinical research, particularly trials that aim to transform outcomes for women facing devastating diagnoses. One study I hope to be a part of is the Phase II study of RAD001 and bevacizumab in recurrent ovarian, peritoneal, and fallopian tube cancer, a single institutional trial led by Dr. Robert Edwards at UPMC Magee-Womens Research Institute. Research like this not only provides hope for patients but also exemplifies the critical role of innovative science in improving survival rates and quality of life. To me, this kind of work represents the ideal union of medicine and research, offering real-world impact while advancing knowledge.

I aspire to be the kind of physician-researcher who goes beyond treating symptoms to uncover the underlying issues, just as the doctors at Magee did for my mother. Patients deserve an advocate who listens to their concerns, works tirelessly to find answers, and brings empathy to every interaction. I hope to focus on advancing women’s health and bridging the gap between innovation and human connection. For me, a career that combines research, medicine, and meaningful patient relationships is the ultimate fulfillment.