Bastyr is the only university recognized internationally as a pioneer in natural medicine. Bastyr has the best school of acupuncture and oriental medicine in the country. It is the only regionally and professionally accredited doctoral-granting university in the United States; taught by the world's leading integrative medicine educators. Additionally, Bastyr's DAOM program is the primary research leader in my areas of interest, namely oncology and advanced pain management. The field of Oriental Medicine, with specialization in oncology and advanced pain management, has been of great importance to me since cancer hit the world. the lives of people who are very dear to me. My mother's family is from Anniston, Alabama. Anniston is known as one of the most toxic cities in the United States due to the Monsanto chemical plant that produces PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) and knowingly pollutes the area. My grandfather died of lung and brain cancer while working in a chemical factory that produced PCBs. My mother was a thyroid cancer survivor 30 years ago and a cousin who resides in Anniston is currently suffering from terminal brain cancer. Additionally, the cancer rate is 33% higher in the African American community than in other races. Having been born into a family of three generations of exceptional doctors, the drive to succeed and serve humanity is etched in my genetic makeup. I firmly believe that being a member of the Bastyr academic staff will provide me with the tools to realize my aspirations and join the list of Bastyr alumni known throughout the world for their remarkable achievements. I am equipped to pursue my ambition of becoming a doctor of acupuncture and oriental medicine at Bastyr University with...... middle of paper ......the public health office, where I worked on the patient care administrative management team that was developed by AmeriCorps. I am by nature a compassionate person and have found that my caring attitude helps put patients at ease in what can sometimes be a stressful or intimidating situation. I know I have the experience, ability and motivation to make a meaningful contribution. contribution to oncology and advanced pain management. I look forward to building a substantial educational foundation that I hope to constantly improve by keeping abreast of all advancements in the field of TCM. I believe that Bastyr University will provide me with the academic community and rigor necessary to further develop my advanced research skills. I hope you will make a favorable decision regarding my admission to the doctoral program and I look forward to joining Bastyr University..