Derrik is passionate about international education and using technology to connect students and opportunities. He has worked within international higher education for over 15 years. Previously, he served as lecturer in economics at Zhejiang Yuexiu University in China where he advised Chinese students entering foreign universities. Later, he served in management roles at a Chinese internet platform connecting Chinese students and international institutions.

He holds a Masters of Business Administration from Johns Hopkins University and is based in Madrid, Spain.