1. Personal statement of Dr Samira Mustafa Osailan
I was born in AlMadinah AlMunwara and undertook my secondary school
education in my hometown. My university degree in Dentistry (BDS) was
completed in King Saud University in Riyadh, as was my Master’s and residency
training in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. Following this was my employment at
the Ministry of Health. For my postgraduate studies (PhD) I went to Kings
College London (KCL) in the UK; after obtaining a PhD in 2005 I earned my
fellowship from the Royal College of Surgeons.
That same year, upon completion of PhD, I was offered a job at KCL as a lecturer
in the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery department. I went on to work there for 7
years, and during this time achieved a Master’s degree in education. In 2010 I
was appointed as the Head of Undergraduate Teaching in my department with
25 supervising members of staff. In this role I developed the teaching strategy in
my department and established a standardized structure, which is still followed
to this day.
In 2012 I was recruited by the Dean of the Dental School at King Abdulaziz
University and joined the university in 2013. I was appointed the Postgraduate
Director and was an executive member in many committees. I introduced the
OSCE clinical examination to the school and I am the main organiser. I recently
established the University Dental Hospital CPR centre and am currently the
Director. Additionally, I am the Head of the Supervising Committee of Health
Colleges for clinical skills centres and simulation in education.
In 2015 I was elected to be an EC board member and the head of the Western
Region Committee for the Saudi Dental Society. My stay in the UK has helped me
ensure that I fulfil this role to my maximum potential through training in
leadership, professional communication, public relations and media talk.
I have potential for constructive change and development in the society and
kingdom as a whole. I would like to encourage diversity whilst still
incorporating my religious and cultural values. I am a good speaker, team player
and organiser. I am well liked by people who work with me closely. I am well-
travelled, which has enhanced my cultural education. I am a regular presenter at
national and international meetings.