المملكة: My journey started with personal pain .. I published 50 research

The student at the College of Pharmacy at Taif University, Rana Al -Otaibi, revealed that her entry into the world of scientific research was not purely academic, but rather a painful personal experience during which one of her relatives was presented to a medical error, which constituted a turning point in her path, and generated a passion for drug safety and health care.
In her dialogue with “Today”, Al -Otaibi confirmed that her mother and father were the main pillar in her support and motivation, considering that every research paper she writes is an attempt to make a real impact in the health sector, especially with regard to the errors of the medicine and ways to prevent them.
Although she is still a student, Al -Otaibi was able to publish more than 50 scientific papers, including 27 research as a first author, and 23 other as a second author, in addition to her participation in 9 research as a sharing author, a number that is remarkable at the level of university students.

She pointed out that her accomplishments did not stop at scientific publishing, but rather extended to international forums, as she won 3 prominent scientific awards at the Doufat International Conference, noting that the secret of her success lies in discipline, organization and time management, in addition to collective work that believes in its impact on enhancing the quality of research outputs.
Al -Otaibi saw that scientific research is not exclusive to academics or holders of higher degrees, but rather a field available to everyone who has the motive, will, and the desire to make a tangible change, considering that her personal story is the best evidence that self -experience may be the strongest motive for achievement.

And to the dialogue ..

First, how did your journey begin in scientific research? Was there a position or personality that inspired you to go through this path?

Since my childhood, my father has been my oldest supplicant. My mother implanted me in the love of learning, and she always told me that science is the real inheritance that is not lost, while my father believed in me absolutely faith, treating my small achievements as if it were great successes, and always pushes me to aspire to the top.

This unconditional support, and the confidence that my family gave me, formed the true basis of my career in scientific research. And when my first steps in this field began, I felt that I was not only working for myself, but to achieve something they are proud of, and reflects the values and persistence that I planted in me.

But the real starting point came after one of my relatives suffered a medical error that had a profound impact on myself. Then I realized the importance of research in this field, and I began to read research and studies related to health care and the safety of drug use, and from here my passion grew, and turned into commitment, to write, research and contribute to developing knowledge that may prevent the recurrence of such errors.

What are the most prominent challenges that you faced in reaching this number of published research? How did you manage to balance the study and scientific research?

Access to this number of research was not a paved path, but was full of challenges, on top of which is time management and mental pressure. To be a student in a difficult specialty like pharmacy, and at the same time I am working on dozens of research projects, meaning that I was living in a permanent race between the final dates, tests, and research.

But the secret was in the organization, discipline, and the appropriate work team. I was dealing with scientific research as part of my day, not as an additional task.
I allocated a daily time to search even if it is short, and I was keen to have a clear and effective role in every project I participate in, so that the tasks do not accumulate on me or lose the incentive.

Do you follow a specific methodology for choosing your research topics? What are the advice you give to new researchers in choosing scientific journals?

Yes, I am always keen to be research topics related to realistic issues and existing challenges in the health sector, especially related to the use of medicines, patient behavior, and the quality of pharmaceutical care.
I always start analyzing research gaps by continuous reading in modern literature, then I ask myself a simple question: Does this research have a real impact? If the answer is yes, start directly to plan it.

As for the choice of magazines, there is a common understanding that only publishing in the Q1 magazines is the only criterion for success, and this is inaccurate. The Q1 classified magazines are excellent but are often very high publishing fees, which is an obstacle for researchers at the beginning of their career.

The most important advice I give to new researchers: Focus on the quality of research and methodology, and choose the magazine that suits your research content and budget, and do not make the price or classification a barrier in front of you. Publishing in any tight and reliable magazine is an achievement worthy of appreciation.

What is your vision of the role of Saudi women in scientific research? How can young researchers support to build a successful academic march?

Saudi women today play a pivotal role in developing scientific research, and they are participating effectively in various scientific, medical, engineering and social fields. This progress was not a coincidence, but rather as a result of the state’s support and enabling to women through educational and research programs and advanced training opportunities, in line with Vision 2030.

Saudi Arabia not only supported universities, but also expanded to include all educational levels, and to provide initiatives that encourage even school students to engage in scientific research early, creating a new generation of creative researchers.

The role of Saudi women in research is no longer limited to attendance, but today it produces high -quality research, innovates, and contributes to strengthening the Kingdom’s position globally.

Do you see that the research environment in Saudi universities is ready to support researchers who are able to compete globally? What do we need to accelerate this shift?

The research environment in some Saudi universities has witnessed a remarkable development, especially in institutions that provide good financing and advanced infrastructure, which encourages innovation and scientific production. But in contrast, there are other universities that still face challenges, whether in terms of resources, financing, or a stimulating environment.

In my personal case, as a student at Taif University, I do not always find adequate research support, whether material or moral, and this may limit the capabilities of distinguished researchers in universities that are not supported enough. Therefore, we need unified policies and a fair distribution of opportunities and support across all Saudi universities.

What message do you want to send to male and female students who have a passion for research, but lack support or confidence in themselves?

My message to everyone who has a passion for scientific research: Do not wait for full support or the perfect moment. Start with your hands, even if the resources are simple. Self -confidence is not granted, but is built with experience and perseverance.

You may have difficulties at first, and you may feel the way is long, but do not make this bend your resolve. Take advantage of small opportunities, join research groups, bring workshops, learn from the Internet and available sources.

And do not be afraid of failure. Failure is a natural part of any development trip, and whoever succeeds is the one who turns every stumbling into a new motivation.
The Kingdom today offers golden opportunities for researchers, whether through universities, institutions or national initiatives. Take advantage of these resources, and remember that sincere passion and continuous work make the difference.