May 13, 2024

Meet Sydney Kotredes, MSN`15

I started my nursing career as a NICU nurse at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia before returning to school to further my education.

Q: Why nursing?
A: I graduated from Drexel’s MSN program with a concentration in pediatric primary care in 2015 then decided to return this year to complete my nursing education by earning my DNP. Taking care of others is what fulfills me, so a career in nursing seemed logical. My passion for pediatrics developed quickly and I have cultivated my specialty in pediatrics for several years.

Q: Why Drexel?
A: I knew Drexel’s excellent reputation having grown up in the Philadelphia area. The presence of a well-developed online curriculum was what attracted me the most. The DNP curriculum thus far has been well-planned and engaging. The courses are practice-oriented and applicable to real-life practice. The faculty are knowledgeable, accessible and very supportive. It is wonderful learning alongside a dedicated group of nurses from different backgrounds who are willing to share their knowledge and support each other on this journey. Drexel’s nursing programs are rooted in real-life experience and developing the student’s individualized special interests. The coursework’s application to realistic situations prepares students to readily apply their knowledge upon graduation.

Q: How do you take care of yourself and recharge your batteries?
A: A career in nursing is wonderful but not without its unique stressors. Taking time to separate from work can be challenging when one’s concept of a nurse transcends the occupation and becomes an identity. I have found that spending time with my family and friends, participating in activities like yoga and hiking and resting are important in keeping a healthy balance in life. In my opinion, three essentials for a long and fruitful nursing career are strong boundaries, a sense of humor and the desire to learn every day. I would encourage anyone with the desire to make a difference in this world to pursue a career in nursing and to choose Drexel University for their nursing education.