OUM’s three new graduates, Kristin Marie White, Shirley Dawn Davis and Filipina Amosa

By Renate Rivers

The Oceania University of Medicine last week celebrated a milestone with the graduation of three female students, one of which is the first Samoan female to complete the Bachelor of Medicine Bachelor of Surgery.

As only the second Samoan to graduate from the internationally accredited school of medicine, Ms Filipina Amosa was held in special regard by her peers, the faculty and members of the University council.

“It has been a challenging and interesting experience, and I have absolutely no regrets with my decision to pursue medicine as my career,�? said Filipina.

A former employee of Samoa Quarantine, she is also a graduate of the University of the South Pacific with a Bachelor of Agricultural Science.  A divergence in career paths came as no surprise to Ms Amosa who confessed it a childhood dream to be a doctor.

“I’ve always wanted to be a doctor..I am passionate about helping people and contributing to our community is very important to me, so when the opportunity came up in 2007 for me to study here at OUM, I leapt at the chance to fulfil my childhood dream and give something back in my own way.�?

Dean of OUM Le Mamea Dr. Limbo Fiu spoke of the university’s ongoing development and growth in terms of improving standards.

“The accreditation journey is still moving forward…all for the improvement of the curriculum, staff, facilities and quality of students that come out the other side,�? he said.

Le Mamea also touched on the recent fuss surrounding staff lay-offs and appointments at the University.

“The recent change in personnel follows the same process as in any other business or organisation when restructuring is required, and was done to help development of the University.�?

 Future plans for Ms Amosa include a one year internship at the Tupua Tamasese Meaole Hospital where she hopes to pursue an interest in paediatrics and internal medicine.

“I thank God first and foremost.  I also thank my family and friends for the support and encouragement and I look forward to serving my country.�?

2011 Graduates:
Bachelor of Medicine Bachelor of Surgery

Kristin Marie White  (Australia)

Shirley Dawn Davis  (Australia)

Filipina Amosa  (Samoa)

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