Biochemistry graduate finds his path, and a future in pharmacy, through versatility of ASU degree
Parker Henmi graduates this December with a biochemistry degree from ASU’s School of Molecular Sciences, with pharmacy school on the horizon. Photo by Kaelin Ryczek/ASU
Editor’s note: This story is part of a series of profiles of notable fall 2025 graduates.
Math and science have always clicked differently for Parker Henmi.
This December, the biochemistry major will graduate from ASU’s School of Molecular Sciences with a clear goal: to channel those strengths into a pharmacy career that offers both opportunity and flexibility.
“I knew ever since I was in elementary school that I loved math and science; they’re so much more fun than English and history for me,” Henmi said.
“Similar to biochemistry, pharmacy is extremely versatile. There's different duties pharmacists have and different career opportunities. I want to start in the hospital and then work my way towards a pharmaceutical company position, and potentially get into the sales or business side of pharmacy.”
Henmi’s road to graduation wasn’t linear.
He began at ASU as a chemical engineering major, but after a few semesters realized biochemistry was a better fit. That pivot, he says, taught him one of the most important lessons of his college experience: take pride in your own path.
“School can be very discouraging at times, but you just have to learn to trust the process, surround yourself with the right people, friends, family, advisors, professors and mentors, and you’ll come out at the end,” he said.
“I’ve gotten discouraged many times, but now I’m graduating this December. That’s a semester past when I was supposed to, but there’s been trials and tribulations for me to get there, and I’m proud of that. I used to think I was behind, but there’s no such thing as behind. Even though it might not feel like it at the time, every little step counts. You’ll get rewarded for what you put in; it’s your journey.”
Here he answers more questions about his college journey.
Question: What was your “aha” moment when you realized you wanted to study the field you majored in?
Answer: I first started at ASU in chemical engineering, but I thought the coolest thing about biochemistry was how diverse it was. You’re learning two of the most important sciences. You can apply that to a lot of different things and can go into many aspects.
Q: What's something you've learned at ASU that surprised you or changed your perspective?
A: Although initially very intimidating, it was learning to form relationships with my professors and the TAs (teaching assistants). Once I did, it made all the difference. I struggled the first couple of years, because I thought I could do it on my own. I thought other students knew more than I do, but in reality, we're all in the same boat and the faculty are only there to help you, and it can only benefit you to reach out.
Q: Why did you choose ASU?
A: I grew up in Chandler, and I really enjoy Arizona. ASU was close to home, and I thought there’s a lot of great opportunities there.
Q: Which professor taught you the most important lesson while at ASU?
A: I'd say Dr. Kevin Redding. He's my biochemistry professor and by far one of my favorite professors at ASU. One of the things I enjoyed the most about his classes was the way it was set up. He wanted us to succeed, and I really appreciated that. He also has the biggest passion for the subject out of all my professors, and it made me be attentive and I pay more attention to people who are truly passionate about what they're teaching. He was all around amazing.
Q: What's the best piece of advice you'd give to those still in school?
A: Take advantage of and study in ASU’s library. I can't stress it enough. There's so many kids that go to ASU, and it feels like only 15% or 20% actually go to the library. It’s where I've been most productive. And also for freshmen and sophomores, I would say, get involved. Club fairs are a super nice way to meet people. It can be a bit intimidating, but they have something for everyone. I was involved with a fun one, an album listening club. I met some great friends there.
Q: What's your favorite spot on campus, whether for studying or meeting friends or thinking about life?
A: I'd say, for sure, the Tooker dorms. They're just so nice, and I met a lot of cool people there. They have a dining hall a short walk from my dorm. It had everything, and I have a lot of good memories there.
Q: What are your plans after graduation?
A: I'm planning to go off to pharmacy school. I have to do a couple more prerequisites at a local community college, but then after that, it's pharmacy school. I want to work in a hospital setting. The same with biochemistry, pharmacy is extremely versatile. There's different duties pharmacists have and different career opportunities. I want to start in the hospital and then work my way towards a pharmaceutical company position, and potentially get into the sales or business side of pharmacy.
Q: If someone gave you $40 million to solve one problem on our planet, what would you tackle?
A: I'd say world hunger as much as I could. Forty million dollars isn’t a solution, but it could make a big difference, maybe in a country or a couple countries.
More Sun Devil community
After 20 years in gymnastics, ASU Law grad finds new purpose in sports industry
For Peyton Valdez, sports have never just been competitions — they’ve been community, identity and home. After spending 20 years as a gymnast, she found herself searching for a new way to stay…
ASU Online helps grad move forward, succeed on own terms
Hardie Kressler planned to stay in the Northeast for college, enrolling at a school not far from his home in Rumson, New Jersey. But, in 2020, before beginning his freshman year, Kressler experienced…
Public servant, Navajo legislator earns Outstanding Graduate distinction
Myron Tsosie is the fall 2025 Outstanding Graduate for ASU’s College of Integrative Sciences and Arts. Courtesy photo Rep. Myron Tsosie, a member of the…