Commencement Spotlight: Cory Calhoun, Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing 
 Future Plans: Emergency Room Nurse, Piedmont Macon Medical Center 

Cory Calhoun, a Perry, Georgia native and non-traditional student, will graduate on May 6 with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. He has made the dean’s list and passed the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) on the first try.  

He will be a double alumnus, having graduated previously with an associate of nursing in 2022. While enrolled, he worked as a paramedic for emergency services and the emergency room at Piedmont Macon Medical Center.  

He is currently researching how to improve patient care in emergency departments.  

He has accepted a position in the emergency department at Piedmont Macon Medical Center, and hopes to become a charge nurse, house supervisor, and cross-train in multiple departments. In the future, he plans to obtain a master’s degree to become a nurse practitioner.  
 

What motivated you to learn more about your field?  
I enjoy helping people in their time of need, and I knew if I continued my career in health care, I would have a bigger impact on people and make a positive difference in their lives.  
 

Why did you choose ASU?  
I chose ASU because the university offers a Paramedic/LPN to ASN bridge program and an online BSN program that fit my needs perfectly and allowed me to succeed in my endeavors.  

 

What do you love most about your chosen profession? 
Nursing allows me to care for the sick and injured from every walk of life. I love being there for people in need and helping them heal so they can spend time with loved ones and enjoy life. I try every day to make a positive difference.  
 

Who has made the biggest impact on you and who do you consider to be a role model at ASU?  
All my professors made it very clear that they were there to help me succeed in any way possible. Every professor was a positive role model that offered feedback and helped me improve along the way. Dr. Veela Hughes really helped me through the ASN program by always being available to answer questions.  
 

What are you passionate about outside of your education? 
Aside from education, I am passionate about being a good person and seeing the good in others even if no one else does. I am passionate about spending time with family and loved ones and traveling.  
 

What advice would you give to other ASU students?  
I would tell other ASU students to take advantage of the free academic resources, get involved in the school, always study hard, and never give up on their goals.  
 

What would you say to a high school student about choosing ASU to further their education?  
ASU offers a wide range of classes that fit any schedule. There were plenty of academic resources available to help me succeed. The university always holds events on campus. The professors and staff are always courteous and help in any way that they can.