Memories from Carole Ann Walcutt Arnold Cornell, ADN '75
Wow! I have so many wonderful memories of my time at Midway.
It began with spending my summers with my grandmother, Agnes Walcutt, who lived in Midway. I lived in Florida, but I so looked forward to my time in Kentucky. My thoughts were to live in Kentucky when I grew up. I loved it so much.
My dream was to become a nurse. My father, Hardin Owsley Walcutt, was in the medical profession. After school, I would often hang around the hospital. The summer of 1972 was pivotal with respect to making a decision to go into nursing school.
My cousin, Margaret Ware Parrish, was a teacher and coach up on the hill. After church one Sunday, Dad and Margaret Ware drove me up on the hill. I was told about the school and that there was a nursing program there. I was excited and asked them if I should look into this possibility. They both agreed.
That began the application process. I was awarded the E.C. Burns Medical Scholarship from my father's radiology group in Florida, a full two-year scholarship that supported my education.
As a descendant of the co-founder of Midway (James Ware Parrish), I had a unique perspective on the school. This was a heritage for me. I was proud of my family connection. James is my third great-grandfather.
I was assigned to live in Belle Wisdom Hall. Both years, I had great roommates. Classroom and hospital training were the best. I also took voice training in my spare time and attended church at the First Christian with my grandmother.
In the spring of 1975, I was crowned Miss Midway College and represented the school at the Mountain Laurel Festival. I signed the Honor Book at Honors Night. I served in the May Day Court and saw my roommate Anita Smith crowned as May Queen.
The Night of Lights was a special tradition for us girls on campus. Both years, my candle went under the bridge, assuring my wish would come true.
The nursing pinning service was emotional for all of us. We were all now dressed in nursing whites, white shoes, and hose with our caps on in full dress! My father and mother pinned me that evening.
Graduation Day was a beautiful day in May. Walking across the grass at the amphitheater was exciting as I received my diploma from President Albert Cox and was hugged by Dean Atwood. My family and friends were all there to be with me. In 1992, I graduated from St. Joseph's College with my BS to further my education. I would go on to be employed at the University of KY Medical Center in the OB/GYN department.
Fast forward, and I retired from nursing in 2015. I worked from delivering babies to caring for older adults in an assisted living facility. Literally, I worked from cradle to the grave.
I received the Midway College Outstanding Alumnae Award in the 1980s.
I have returned from living in Florida to be closer to my son, his wife, and my two little grandsons. I continue to serve in my local church in Cynthiana, KY, in the choir and on the praise team.