In doing so, she makes sure that everyone from those new to the university to those in key positions, understands the importance of Loyola's faith and mission. Students look for that difference when they come to Loyola. While the world's needs differ, they also change over time. The nursing profession and those who take interest in the field are a lot different now than when McDermott first joined Loyola's faculty in 1968. She says that many of today's undergraduate nursing students focus on critical care nursing.
Nursing is also the second career of an increasing number of nursing students.
No matter what the trend in nursing is, or what age or professional background her students come from, McDermott finds a way to relate to her students. That can be difficult sometimes. Currently, there is a nationwide shortage of registered nurses. As a teacher, one of McDermott's challenges is to maintain the students' interest in the nursing profession. In fact, registered nurses are paid quite well early in their career.