Although raised by a mother who was very aware of the need for a varied and healthy diet, my father developed Type 2 Diabetes and this spurred a special interest in this disease which is unusually, and increasingly, common among South Asians. I have undertaken significant private study into the causes and treatment of this disease. Diet is clearly a basic factor in both preventing and controlling the disease and I passionately hope to acquire the skills and knowledge to enable me to assist people to identify and adopt health-preserving diets and especially in relation to this disease. I have a special interest in pediatric nutrition especially as it relates to the avoidance of Type 2 Diabetes and in mother and child nutrition in marginalized communities. I hope to pursue the Health Promotion and Disease Prevention track of the program.
My bachelor's degree (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery) qualifies me to practice Ayurvedic medicine and I did so for three years, working in an Indian hospital from graduation until moving to the US. Ayurveda is a holistic and traditional Indian system of medicine. The importance of diet, meditation, and exercise in the maintenance of good physical and mental health is emphasized. This emphasis arose long before these links were recognized in western medicine. Many traditional Ayurvedic remedies and tonics have been found to be effective by those practicing ‘conventional’ medicine, and western medicine can still learn much from this system. My clinical training and career have provided an excellent grounding in effective communication with patients and colleagues, in record keeping and in inter-disciplinary co-operation.
I moved to the US in 2015 for family reasons but, because of my status, I have been unable to take employment. I have used the time to prepare for exams such as GRE and TOEFL and have undertaken private study in dietetics. I have become increasingly fascinated by the subject and am passionate in wishing to acquire very high-level knowledge and skills in the specialty, much of which overlaps with my bachelor studies and career to date.
I undertook a significant amount of research during my bachelor's degree studies which was both fascinating and instructive. My B.Sc. dissertation related to the priming effects of TV advertising in subsequent eating behavior. I also worked on a project entitled ‘Therapeutic Effects of Shatavari (Asparagus Racemases)’ and one relating to the relative benefits of various herbs in the treatment of snakebites. This research exposure has provided me with a good understanding of various research techniques and methods. I have the characteristics required of a good researcher; I am numerate, determined, capable of original and creative thinking and happy to work as a team member to the attainment of a common goal. My aim is to earn a Ph.D. in Nutrition and then to practice, undertake research and to teach. I am keen to pursue any research opportunities that may arise within the program in preparation for such a career, especially those touching on the special interests that I have specified.
I am, of course, very aware that social, cultural, and ethnic considerations play a significant role in an individual’s dietary preferences and choices, and that it is particularly important for a dietician to be culturally aware, educated, and sensitive to be effective. I positively seek to relate to people of many ethnic and social backgrounds and to learn as much as possible from them. I also enjoy sharing information about my own rich heritage. I have had the opportunity to travel in Europe and East Asia exposing me to rewarding new experiences and interesting people. I am fluent in English and Malayalam and can speak Tamil.
I have sacrificed considerable time and effort during my academic and professional career working as a volunteer. I have participated in numerous ‘medical camps’ in rural India, I have worked as a volunteer in several Diabetes Management Programs and was a volunteer Ayurvedic practitioner in various homes for the aged in India. I regard volunteer work to be an obligation rather than a choice. I hope to have the opportunity to work with deprived communities on a voluntary basis in the future to provide basic dietary education and advice to those who would most benefit from it.
I seek to be a ‘well rounded’ person and have always pursued a wide range of hobbies and interests outside of my academic and professional work. I have won awards for traditional music and dance and have participated in various cultural and stage programs in school and university. I have participated at national level as a member of quiz teams. I love chess for its intellectual challenges and badminton which provides both fun and excellent exercise, I also enjoy Zumba dancing for the same reasons.
I am particularly attracted to the University of Texas, Austin’s program because of the excellent facilities, prestigious faculty, and its excellent reputation in providing a first-class education in this vital specialty. I believe that I can ‘add value’ to the program because of my academic and professional background, and research experience. I believe that my training and background will enable me to bring some unique insights to the program.
To summarize: I have an excellent academic record and potential; I have a bachelor degree and professional experience that relate closely to the program; I have research and clinical experience but, most importantly, I am passionate about nutrition and educating people in its fundamental importance to their health and well-being and doing so as widely and effectively as possible.
Thank you for considering my application.
PHD Nutrition Personal Purpose Statement Example
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