Allison Arnold, ‘24, has a talent for staying calm under pressure. Whether it’s making key defensive plays as the center fielder for PNW Pride Softball or preparing to enter a fast-paced Nursing career, she can stay cucumber cool.
Arnold is completing her bachelor of science in Nursing (BSN) from PNW’s College of Nursing. Her goal is to start as an emergency room or intensive care unit (ICU) nurse. Down the line, she wants to further her education with a master of science in Nursing (MSN) or even a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).
While at PNW, Arnold played with Pride Softball and served on PNW Athletics’ Student Athletic Advisory Committee (SAAC).
“My words of advice for student-athletes are that it’s never too hard to do both your sport and school,” Arnold said. “If it’s something you’re passionate about, you can do both.”
How did you become interested in Nursing?
“My mom is a nurse practitioner. When I was growing up, I wanted to be like my mom, so that was my drive to be a nurse. I’m drawn to health care in general. I just have a nurturing and helpful personality, and I always want to help someone if they are hurt. My siblings would say I care a lot. I’m a triplet, and I was always the leader out of us, such as caring for someone when they got sick.
“I picked Nursing at Purdue Northwest because I also wanted to play softball at a high level, and PNW was one of the schools that would allow me to do both.”
What did you like the most about your program?
“The connections we have with the local hospitals. We have so many fantastic hospital systems all around in Northwest Indiana. No matter what direction you go, there’s a hospital. And you can cross the state line and we have access to Illinois hospitals. Those connections can change your life. If you go to a Nursing program in a rural setting, then you probably won’t have access to the same big hospitals.”
What did you like the most about PNW?
“Literally anywhere you go, you have resources, whether that’s in student housing, academic tutors, professors that are willing to help you, peer mentors in Athletics. Our coaches are also the biggest support system you could possibly ask for.”
Did you have a pivotal experience while attending PNW?
“Being a part of SAAC and doing trunk-or-treat with the community meant a lot because you’re doing something impactful, powerful and fun for a community that needs it. With PNW being in the middle of Hammond, we help build relationships with our school and the city. Trunk-or-treat creates a safe environment for families that come out, and they love that.”
What words of advice would you share with prospective students?
“Make connections and use your resources. If you utilize mentors and all the materials your professors give you, you’ll be more than successful. If you make connections or get involved in a committee or club, you can make a group of friends and find like-minded people.”
Was there anyone at PNW who inspired or encouraged you along the way?
Tristan Zink
HEAD SOFTBALL COACH
“She’s helped me more than anyone with academics, personal life and softball. She has been such a huge support for me throughout my whole experience. She’s awesome.”
