There are manifold motivations for seeking academic credentials in Radiation Therapy. Amongst the many reasons are a desire to be involved in healthcare and help people in their most dire hour of need, a dedication to scientific inquiry, and the allure of novel therapeutic interventions for devastating disease. When a layperson thinks of radiation, catastrophes such as Chernobyl or Fukushima come to mind, however, in the hands of the able Radiation Therapist radiation seeks to wage battle against cancer and promote longevity and ultimately improve a patient’s quality of life.
My specific interest in radiation therapy is a result of my unfortunate familiarity with cancers. I have lost several family members and friends to the disease, and because of its grim toll I have acquired a fairly large knowledge of the course of the malady. The most recent loss I’ve experienced was of a good friend who passed away at the age of 17 as a result of an astrocytoma. My friend suffered for five years, and all I could do was stand beside her, helpless against its advance. This was a seminal experience in my understanding of the impact of cancer and in cementing my desire to help wage the battle against it.
Academic challenges must be met with an inquisitive mind hardened by scientific discipline and method. I am also driven by a desire to pursue scientific discovery and innovation. The degree program will empower me to make meaningful scientific contributions to numerous fields including physics and clinical medicine. My passion for inquiry will push me to test innovative interventions on behalf of my patients in order to provide them with manifest improvements in care.
