Professora Diana

Personal Statement

First, I would like to thank you for your attention in receiving and dedicating your valuable time in reading this letter, which succinctly outlines the key aspects of myself,  journey, and professional career.

My name is M.R., I am 29 years old and an only child. I am very grateful to have been raised in a home that instilled values such as honesty, empathy, respect, responsibility, and gratitude. These principles have served as the foundation of my ethical and conscientious character.

I am currently in my final year of a five-year cardiovascular surgery residency program at the Federal University of São Paulo in Brazil.

Over the past four years, I have gained significant knowledge in the field of cardiovascular surgery while also experiencing personal growth. I have learnt the value of teamwork, respect and genuine dedication to others – whether with colleagues, the University, or the patients I have had the privilege to care for.

I can confidently state that I have given my best at every stage of my life since the beginning of my residency. These years have been filled with hard work and sleepless nights on several occasions. However, the fatigue has never weighed heavily on me because I love what I do. Thanks to God, who grants me life, health, intelligence, and talent, I have been able to pursue my dream.

Since childhood, I experienced something in my innermost that made me happy whenever I envisioned myself performing “heart” surgeries. My parents never guided me toward medicine area, neither on cardiovascular surgery. And really, looking back, I cannot recall any influence that led me to this field. So I am absolutely sure that this is my calling and I am committed to becoming an excellent professional by giving my very best in everything I do.

In 2015, I began my medical studies, and from the beginning, I was deeply drawn to clinical and surgical emergencies. Making a difference in a patient’s care and recovery during their most critical moments has always been meaningful to me.

As I progressed I my studies and gained hands-on experience in medical school, I developed a strong passion in the field of surgery, and particularly cardiovascular surgery. Then I pursued and totally aligned with what I felt during my childhood. I committed myself in entering the cardiovascular surgery, and today, I feel fulfilled as I continue to grow, refining my skills, and expanding my knowledge in this field.

Being in the hospital and operating room brings me great joy, satisfaction, and a profound sense of purpose. Knowing that, under God, the life of a patient depends on my best efforts and on the collective dedication of the surgical team. This reality drives me to pursue continuous improvement, skill development, and excellence in my profession.

In 2021, I was accepted into the cardiovascular surgery residency program at the Federal University of São Paulo. During this time, I developed a particular interest in aortic surgery. My first experiences in this specialty were as an observer and support team member. Standing alongside the anaesthesiologist, I felt the certainty that this is the field in which I wish to specialize in the future, upon completing my residency.

My purpose in applying for a probationer internship at the Cleveland Clinic is to learn from the professionals of this renowned institution, which has trained brilliant minds and outstanding practitioners.

This is my current dream, and I am committed to pursuing it with diligence, humility, and perseverance. I am certain that beyond learning surgical techniques practiced with excellence, I will also be able to share this experience with other professionals, and benefit from the professional experience and  culture of this exceptional institution.

I hope this letter demonstrates the depth of my passion and fondness for aortic surgery and my genuine purpose and motivation to learn from the so esteemed Cleveland Clinic. Should I be granted this extraordinary opportunity, I will spare no effort in giving my best.

Thank you in advance for your time and consideration,

Sincerely,
M.R.