Darlene Smith

Name (pronouns): 
Darlene Smith (She, Her, Hers)
Department/Division: 
APeX Training
Years at UCSF: 
9 years
Role in technology: 
Principal APeX Trainer
What technology project(s) have you worked on that you are most proud of?: 

I am most proud of creating realistic fake patients for our computer training environment. The more realistic I can make them, the better it is for student learning. At one point I was “scolded” by Compliance because they thought that my fake patients were real.


How has technology helped you achieve a goal within your role or department?: 

As an APeX trainer, technology is my job. I teach providers, staff, and registrars how to use computer applications to document patient information. So technology helps me to reach my goal of being a skilled instructor on a daily basis.


What’s your favorite aspect of your role at UCSF and why?: 

My favorite aspect is the people. I have the opportunity to meet interesting people every week. Because my classes are small, I am able to learn about them in class and then watch them succeed in their jobs when I go into the hospital/clinics to support them. It is incredibly rewarding to know that what I do really does matter.


What’s one ‘fun fact’ about you that not many people know?: 

I can reference a song lyric for just about any occasion. Many grey cells have been taken up by this… ;-)


What do you like to do when you’re not at work?: 

I like to dance. I am constantly taking classes to learn new styles. To date, I have learned Ballroom dancing, Chicago Stepping, Country and Rhythm Line dancing, tap, jazz, and hip hop.


If you could learn anything, what would that be?: 

I am continuously attempting to become fluent in French and American Sign Language. I find both languages incredibly beautiful. Hmmm – a goal for my retirement??