No matter the situation, Dr. Carroccino always found a way to connect with her students on a deeper level beyond just academics. She reminded us that balance is possible and that, at the end of the day, we’re all human. As a leader, that quality is so important because it shows those looking up to you that perfection isn’t the goal, perseverance is. Things may not always go smoothly when you’re working hard for what you want, but you’ll get there. That, to me, perfectly captures the essence of nursing school: it’s a rocky road, but every challenge leads to growth. Time and time again, Dr. Carroccino exemplifies what it means to be a leader.

Dr. Carroccino has been such a big role model to me in that she is always welcoming to everyone. She is there to support not only students but also faculty. She has been there to help with how best to approach a situation professionally, and she is the type of nurse I aspire to be. She was a teacher that I not only had in class but also as clinical faculty. She was always there to teach us in whatever way was best for us, always available for extra help, always finding us opportunities to support our learning.