I have spent a considerable time in the healthcare industry throughout my life. This is a consequence of having a parent in the field of healthcare and having the opportunity to take part in several research projects at one of best hospitals in the nation. The latter was probably the more momentous of my general experiences in the healthcare industry and was one of the most formative experiences of my life.
Over the last three summers, two of them were spent completing research projects at the Cleveland Clinic. The first research project concerned the field of molecular biotechnology and proteomics. Proteomics is a newly developing field of science that is concerned with mapping the profile or as scientists call it, the sequence of every human protein and understanding their specific function. The research I conducted was concerned with investigating the proteomic basis of infertility in males. After a great deal of hard work and several learning experiences, the research yielded some interesting results. Our research group learned that there are two proteins that are rarely seen in infertile male spermatozoa and are probably the reason for their inability to fertilize a female’s egg. This important discovery will lead to a better understanding of the etiology of male infertility and may lead to eventual solutions to male infertility. As a testimony to the importance of this research, it was published in Fertility and Sterility, which is a major journal in the field of reproductive medicine.
The second research project I conducted at the Cleveland Clinic concerned evaluating the validity and efficacy of a neuropsychological test that is used to evaluate concussed athletes. Along with this research project, I assisted in several other research projects that were concerned with concussions and head and neck health. All of these research projects are currently still ongoing; however, the preliminary results of the experiment are very intriguing and will undoubtedly result in publication.
These research experiences at the Cleveland Clinic have done a lot to refine my professional and scientific skills, but also have helped dramatically to sophisticate me as an individual. Without these experiences, it would be much harder to achieve the academic and personal success I have had thus far. I would advise all burgeoning and aspiring young intellectuals to look into the healthcare field for possible career not only because they are intellectually challenging and stimulating, but also they are a pragmatic career option that can offer a great deal of financial security. Most importantly, the healthcare industry improves the lives of people every day and allows them to live happily with their families and friends as long as possible.
Sources
Thacker, Stetson, Yadav, Satya P., et al. ” Evaluation of Sperm Proteins in Infertile Men: A Proteomic Approach .” Fertility and Sterility. Volume 95, Issue 8 , 30 June 2011, Pages 2745-2748. http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0015028211006509 .