Editor’s note: This story is part of a series of profiles of notable fall 2024 graduates.
Kamerin Calhoun says he’s loved studying environmental engineering at the School of Sustainable Engineering and the Built Environment, part of the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering at Arizona State University.
“I knew I was on the right track when I’d come home from school and tell my roommates another random cool science fact I learned that day,” Calhoun says.
Environmental engineering is essential for safeguarding public health through ensuring clean water and air and controlling pollution. It also plays a critical role in promoting sustainable development, ensuring that resources are protected for future generations.
“We’re trying to save the world that our grandparents destroyed,” Calhoun jokes. “Environmental engineering is surprisingly complex and highly applicable, and I have enjoyed every second of it.”
Among his academic achievements, Calhoun received A’s in classes that many would consider to be the toughest courses in the program, earned 100% on a physics of music report that is now used as an example in CEE 384 Numerical Methods, and was named an outstanding graduate of environmental engineering.
Calhoun credits three professors for his growth throughout college.
“Margaret Garcia teaches some of the most difficult concepts in ways where everything just makes sense,” Calhoun says. “Sergi Garcia-Segura made me work for the answer, no matter how lost I was. His patience and diligence are unmatched.”
Professor Morteza Abbaszadegan introduced Calhoun to microbiology and instilled a new environmental engineering passion.
“I was nervous about it, but he made me fall in love with the subject. His unique classroom instruction inspires student participation,” Calhoun says.
Beyond the classroom, Calhoun served as an officer for social fraternity Lambda Chi Alpha, went skydiving with the ASU Daredevils Skydive Club and studied in Madrid to complete his minor in Spanish.
“The best thing about ASU is the people and the diversity,” Calhoun says. “I met people from all walks of life who have shown me different ways to live my own life. I've met some of the people who will stand next to me at my wedding. ASU gave me everything I could have ever asked for.”
Calhoun says he loves exploring new places, experiencing lifestyles in other countries and is planning to work abroad temporarily to immerse himself in another culture.
After graduation, Calhoun will begin his work as a civil engineering analyst at Kimley-Horn in Phoenix.
“Environmental engineers will be the ones to save the world,” Calhoun says. “I am grateful to be a part of that.”
The facts on Calhoun:
- Degree: BSE in environmental engineering and minor in Spanish.
- Hometown: Medford, Oregon.
- Previous school: South Medford High School.
Favorites:
- Hobby: Playing the guitar and performing live.
- Performer: John Mayer.
- TV show: "Game of Thrones."
- Activity: Disc golf or cliff jumping.
- Sport: Snowboarding.
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