SKCTC Alumni Profile: Ernie Scott

Major/Degree: I began my academic career with an Associate in Science from then UK s Southeast Community College in May 1996.

Current Job/Title: Director, Kentucky Office of Rural Health-UK Center of Excellence in Rural Health-UK College of Medicine

What brought you to Southeast? I wanted to stay close to home to get my basics and further explore my opportunities within the healthcare arena. Of course, the low cost was a contributing factor!

What was your favorite part(s) of being a student at Southeast? The classes were small in size which created an atmosphere in which you could easily ask questions. I was able to establish meaningful relationships with my professors and fellow students. There was a sense of community on campus. Campus wasn t just a place to drop in for classes.

Tell us about one of your most memorable experiences here at Southeast. Being from a small town, everyone knew everyone. Meeting with my academic advisor was always an intense experience- in a good way. My academic advisor was also my church youth group leader and had known me the better part of my entire life. She had high expectations for me and held me to a very high standard. In short, if Mrs. Pratt wasn t happy- nobody was happy. I am indebted to her forever.

How did Southeast help you get where you are today? Without a doubt, my experience at Southeast was instrumental in placing me on a track for success. I was able to test the waters and better decide which path I should take. The ability to remain grounded in my community during those early years, proved it possible for me to establish myself here in the region for years to come. If I had selected to leave the region after high school, I am uncertain I would not have felt it practical or even possible to return to this region.

What would you say to someone thinking about coming to Southeast in the future? Look to Southeast as a great place to establish a firm educational foundation. You will only get out as much as you are willing to put in: be involved, become engaged in the campus community and look for ways to plug in.