Karen Dwyer Hulett
Karen Dwyer Hulett
Bachelor of Science, General Science, 1972
Former member of the College of Arts and Sciences Dean’s Executive Advisory Board
“From a very young age I had the dream of being a doctor and making a difference in the medical field in some form or fashion. The courses I took in the College of Arts and Sciences gave me the foundation to move forward and achieve my career goals later in life,” Hulett said.
Hulett was drawn to MSU because of her sister, who she saw thriving and felt it was the only obvious choice to follow her. She describes her best times at MSU not in the big events, although she did love those, but instead in the time she spent with friends doing the mundane.
“The comradery myself and my classmates experienced together will forever be a fond memory. We experienced ups and downs of college life together, from staying up until the early morning hours cramming in those extra few minutes of study time, to celebrating those hard-earned A’s, and even crying on each other’s shoulders during those challenging times.”
Campus involvement and influential professors meant a lot to Hulett; she was a member of Alpha Epsilon Delta the National Health Professional Honor Society. This group plugged her into a wide network of social connections which helped her thrive academically. In the historic Harned Hall, she made close academic connections with her biology professor who left a lasting impression even now.
After her graduation, Hulett married her husband, Dr. W.B Hulett, during their time at medical school at the University of Mississippi Medical Center. They have built a family together that she credits as being, “without a doubt my greatest achievement in life.”
She graduated from the University of Mississippi Medical Center and went on to become the first civilian doctor on staff at the Irwin Army Community Hospital in Fort Riley, Kansas. Her time in service led her to pursue her Master of Public Health from Tulane University. Hulett’s education led her to work for the Department of Rehab Services in Jackson, where she has been for the last 35 years.
“I accredit the firm foundation the College of Arts and Sciences instilled in me from the very beginning with the rigorously challenging curriculum to the immense support and guidance I received. It all started with that one biology professor that made a lasting impression on me.”
Her time away from MSU did not tarnish her love for the school as her and her family continue to bleed maroon and white, attending all athletic events.
Hulett has previously served on various boards at MSU, including the College of Arts & Sciences Dean’s Executive Advisory Board and the MSU Foundation Board. The Hulett family has a true passion for supporting students' academic success through establishing endowed scholarships both within the college and the Healthcare Pathway Resource Center (HPRC).
Her advice to students today is one that President Mark Keenum would heartily agree with: “Go to class! Time management is also at the top,” she wisely explained. “Don’t let things get too overwhelming before you utilize your support system on campus. Reach out to your advisor, counselor, or professor. They are there for a reason! Surround yourself with those that fill your cup.”
This alumna describes her student experience as deeply fulfilling, a theme that has defined Hulett’s life and one she has pursued with great success.
“My journey toward a fulfilling life began at Mississippi State University. During my time at MSU, I gained not only knowledge, but invaluable life experiences. I’ve learned that when you embrace both the good and the challenges, and put in the work, you can build a life that is both successful and deeply fulfilling. Every opportunity I’ve been given began with my decision to attend Mississippi State University.”