SPUR Program: A Personal Statement Of Purpose

In my time working alongside physicians, specifically neurologists, I have learned how imperative research is when concerning the intricacies and complexities of human physiology. Through my work as an intern alongside these neurologists, I have learned that in this specialty of clinical medicine, there can be more questions than answers. My desire to answer these questions is why I would like to engage in research and be part of the SPUR program. My passion for this science, specifically neuroscience, has intensified over my compilation of experiences.

From a very young age, my undiagnosable neurological mystery has instilled a curiosity to search for answers to deeply understand the errors in my biochemical and anatomical pathways. My unpredictable episodes of peripheral neuropathy, tingling, impaired sensation had my neurologists questioning multiple sclerosis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. I went through several MRI’s, metabolic panels, and countless other tests that resulted in indefinite outcomes. Eventually, my doctors had more questions than answers. Because of this, I believe that investing myself in research will allow me to contribute to the pool of knowledge in neurology. The fact that no physician has been able to diagnosis my medical

I was absolutely puzzled and heartbroken. Once again, there were only questions and no answers. I couldn’t fathom how a person’s brain could manifest thoughts of death. This traumatic life event propelled my driving force to seek out the “why” and “how” of the neurobiological and chemical processes a human being with the diagnosis of depression endures. This experience taught me how profound the field of neurology is: it is much more than just the physical, anatomical aspect of the central nervous system, there is also a deep psychological element present that affects us all as