Bastyr is the only university internationally recognized as a pioneer in natural medicine. Bastyr has the best school of acupuncture and oriental medicine in the country. This is the only regionally and professionally accredited doctoral-granting university in the United States; taught by leading integrative medicine educators in the world. Additionally, Bastyr's DAOM program is the primary research leader in my areas of interest, which are oncology and advanced pain management. The field of oriental medicine with a specialization in oncology and advanced pain management is of great importance to me as cancer has touched the lives of people who are very dear to me. My maternal family is from Anniston, Alabama. Anniston is known as one of the most toxic cities in the United States due to the Monsanto chemical factory that produces PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) and knowingly pollutes the area. My grandfather died of lung and brain cancer while working in the chemical plant that produces PCBs. My mother was a thyroid cancer survivor 30 years ago and a cousin who resides in Anniston currently has terminal brain cancer. Furthermore, cancer is 33% higher in the African-American community than in other races. Having been born into a family of three generations of exceptional physicians, the drive to succeed and be of service to humanity is imprinted in my genetic makeup. I firmly believe that being a member of Bastyr's faculty will provide me with the tools that will allow me to realize my aspirations and join the list of Bastyr alumni known around the world for their extraordinary 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 administrative management of the patient care team that was developed through AmeriCorps. I am by nature a compassionate person and have found that my nurturing attitude helps put patients at ease in what can sometimes be a stressful or intimidating situation. I know I have the background, ability and motivation to do meaningful work. contribution to oncology and advanced pain management. I look forward to building a solid educational foundation that I hope to constantly improve while staying abreast of all advances in the field of TCM. I believe Bastyr University will provide me with the academic community and rigor to further develop my aptitude for advanced research. I hope you will make a favorable decision regarding my admission to the doctoral program and look forward to joining Bastyr University.