Elisheba (Vannie) Respes

Nursing

When Elisheba Respes arrived at Delaware Technical Community College, she felt inspired to pursue a career in nursing. Her hard work paid off in December 2024 when she received her nursing pin, signifying the successful completion of her Associate Nursing Degree (RN). Despite personal challenges, she did not waiver in her commitment to her educational goals and dedication to the Delaware Tech community.

While preparing for the next step in her career, Respes took time to reflect on the moment that her journey with Delaware Tech began.

“At the time, I was trying to figure out where to go and what options were available to me,” she said. “One day, I saw a Delaware Tech magazine in the mail. On the magazine cover was an image of nurses wearing scrubs and smiling. I saw that image as confirmation that nursing was the direction I wanted to go. It was a calling.”

While taking nursing courses at the Stanton Campus, Respes got involved in several extracurricular activities. Her goal was to experience as much as she could during her time at the College. Respes was part of the Student Leadership Conference, Student Nursing Association, Active Minds, Phi Theta Kappa, Student Government Association, and was a New Student Orientation leader. Each organization she joined taught her something new and allowed her to become engaged with the campus in ways she had not expected.

Respes found that by being a part of these organizations, she was able to develop her leadership skills while also meeting new people. She especially enjoyed her time with the Student Government Association where she served as a member-at-large, secretary, and as a representative for the Student Nursing Association. Through this organization, Respes received a great sense of fulfillment because it allowed her to represent the entire student body while on campus. She also participated in the Presidential Leadership Academy, an experience she describes as being transformative.

“My advice for students who are just starting at Delaware Tech is to utilize the resources available to you,” Respes said. “Get involved with as much as you can and get to know the faculty and staff. They want to help you succeed.”

The most impactful experience Respes had at Delaware Tech was studying abroad in the Dominican Republic where she joined other nursing students to provide clinical care to citizens of the country. Some of Respes’ responsibilities included assessing symptoms, treating patients, prescribing medication, and creating care kits.

“For me, this experience was both humbling and inspiring,” said Respes. “We devoted our time, energy, and love to serve the underserved in the region. This was my first time traveling outside of the U.S., and I was able to see the country in its most authentic form, not just the heavily traveled areas. It was a beautiful experience.”

Respes will participate in the spring 2025 graduation ceremony and is eager to begin her nursing career. She is already making plans to return to Delaware Tech to obtain a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree (BSN).