05 January 2025
Threesna Sharfina
The Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Sumatera Utara (FKG USU), officially released students of the Professional Dental Program (PSPPDG) to begin their clinical training at the USU Dental and Oral Hospital (RSGM USU). The send-off ceremony was attended by the Dean of FKG USU, Dr. drg. Essie Octiara, Sp.KGA., Subsp.PKOA(K), Vice Dean I, Dr. drg. Olivia Avriyanti Hanafiah, Sp.B.M.M., Subsp.C.O.M.(K), and the Head of the PSPPDG Study Program, drg. Mutia Amalia Nasution, M.Biomed., Sp.Ort., Subsp.DDPK(K). RSGM USU was represented by the Vice Director of RSGM USU, who also delivered a welcoming speech.
In her remarks, Dr. Essie Octiara emphasized the importance of professionalism, ethics, and dedication in clinical education. “This stage is a significant step for students to apply the knowledge they have gained in lectures to real-world practice. We hope you will hone your clinical skills and become competent and ethical dentists. Moreover, clinical students must start thinking about their schedules and identifying potential patients, starting from close relatives and beyond,” she said.
Dr. Essie further emphasized that the clinical phase is not merely about technical training but also about building character as responsible and compassionate healthcare professionals.
“You will face various challenges — from time management and patient handling to dealing with complex medical conditions. Therefore, mental readiness and discipline are essential,” she added.
Meanwhile, the Vice Director of RSGM USU expressed the hospital's commitment to supporting students during their clinical training.
“We will provide optimal guidance so students can master dental procedures directly and act responsibly in handling patients,” he stated. He also highlighted the importance of initiative and readiness in facing the demands of clinical life. “When you begin treating patients, you're not just learning technical skills — you're also learning how to communicate effectively, manage stress, and work collaboratively within a medical team,” he added. This send-off marks an essential milestone as students step into hands-on practice. They are expected to develop technical capabilities and a deeper understanding of dentistry's psychological and social dimensions. Furthermore, engaging with patients from diverse backgrounds is a key challenge that requires thoughtful preparation.
The event concluded with a group photo and a collective prayer for the students’ smooth journey through their clinical education. With the release of PSPPDG FKG USU students to RSGM USU, it is hoped that they will enhance their clinical competencies and be well-prepared to become future professionals in the field of dentistry.
