Contemplate My Admission to Your

¶ … contemplate my admission to your university, I know that I am undecided about my area of interest. I have two conflicting interests that I must choose between - business and medicine. Both offer opportunities for a successful career in the future, and both are extremely personal choices for me.

You see, my 24-year-old sister Cassie has Down Syndrome, and has influenced my life in many ways, which is why both of these choices hold so much importance for me. In the future, I would like to help disabled people in some way, because of my sister's disability. Her health problems, positive attitude, and sincere love for her family have showed me that I can make a difference in her life, and I can make a difference in others' lives no matter which major I finally decide upon. I have seen the problems in business and medicine that can get in the way of disabled patients and their needs, and I would like to help change the way the nation views disabled people and their problems.

If I choose business, there are training opportunities, ways to advocate for the disabled, and problems with discrimination that I could become involved with and support with my education and experience. I feel that private enterprise offers many opportunities to help and make a difference, while the government sadly fails this group of people. This is why I could choose business as my major and career choice.

However, medicine offers many opportunities for me to help others as well. I would like to provide assistance to those who are in need, perhaps in a clinical setting, or by majoring in biology or medical research and searching for a cure for syndromes such as my sister's affliction. I feel that the medical profession has many opportunities to make a difference in people's health and well-being, along with education others about disabilities and those who suffer from disabilities. Therefore, I am still torn between these choices. I know whatever major I choose, my first priority is to help others and make a difference in their lives.

I feel I have a lot to offer to your university in my attitude, involvement, and dedication. I am a very sensitive person because of my sister and her condition. She has had many medical problems (including open-heart surgery, heart failure, and several battles with pneumonia). She is an inspiration to me, and my family rejoices in all of her successes. This has made me more open to others, and to understand those who are different, as well as those who fit in. I feel this will make me a better, more compassionate student and peer.

My sister has taught me more than compassion and sensitivity. Despite her health problems and situation, she still holds down a part time job at McDonald's, and is always positive and upbeat. As my older sister, she is a role model for me, and I feel the need to protect her at times, which has also taught me responsibility and strength. I feel I will be a responsible and dedicated student with my sister's dedication in sight throughout my university years. I am serious about my educational opportunities, and hope to finish my education as soon as possible so I can begin working in my chosen career and having a positive influence on others' lives.