Derrico is the best clinical instructor I had during my time at the CON. He pushed us to learn more and be better nurses. He sought opportunities for us to practice skills and be hands-on during clinical. But more than that, he truly valued us learning the “why” behind everything. Sure we could rattle off medications, and perform skills, but he helped us to actually understand why this disease presented this range of symptoms, why this medicine had these effects, and why this skill was necessary to patient care. He really wanted us to get to the heart of everything. I now ask more questions, I research more, and I want to know more of the “why” behind my nursing actions. He facilitated this idea of becoming a lifelong learner in nursing.

He also cares deeply for his students. He frequently checked in with us, making sure we felt comfortable and competent with where we were in our progression as nurses. During the transition, we met weekly. He always had an encouraging word to say and took the time to review my patients with me. I knew I could ask him questions without fear. These interactions helped me to learn more about the pathophysiology behind my patients’ conditions and are things I remember even now as a nurse. I appreciate all the time and effort Derrico invested into my future as a nurse.