CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. — For Southeast Missouri State University student Calyn Hartmann, choosing between two big dreams wasn’t an option-so she chose both. Calyn is on track to graduate in May 2026 with both professional pilot and biomedical sciences degrees, a combination that showcases both her academic ambition and her fearless pursuit of the extraordinary.
“I didn’t always plan this,” Hartmann said. “I started out in biomedical sciences, but the more I traveled and spent time in airports, I had this recurring thought that maybe I wanted to become a pilot.”
Hartmann, who graduated high school in 2020 and spent two years earning associate degrees in general science and arts at a community college, transferred to SEMO in 2022. She officially added professional pilot to her already demanding pre-med curriculum in 2023, thanks in part to encouragement from SEMO’s Director of Aviation, Miranda Sullivan.
“Calyn has incredible drive and time management,” said Sullivan. “Balancing two demanding programs like pre-med and professional pilot isn’t easy, but she’s handled it with determination and grace. From the moment she approached us about pursuing both degrees, we knew she had the commitment to make it work.”
Though the path hasn’t been easy, Hartmann credits her work ethic and support network for helping her thrive. Balancing flight lessons, biology labs, and summer coursework requires discipline.
“I don’t stop over the summer,” she said. “I’m flying and studying. With aviation, you learn, then practice, and you have to keep learning and keep practicing. You have to set aside time to focus and get it done.”
In addition to her full course load, Hartmann works as a teaching assistant during the school year and at a veterinary office during summer breaks. She finds joy in microbiology classes with one of her favorite biology professors, Dr. James Champine.
“Calyn was always a favorite student,” said Champine. “She was very engaged in the work. She is responsible, professional, poised, inquisitive.”
Champine says he’s not surprised at all that Calyn is seeking both degrees.
“Exceptional people are often excellent in multiple pursuits. At SEMO, I’ve met many students who paired biomedical science with other degrees or athletics,” he said. “It’s not surprising that Calyn, who is an exceptional person, is pursuing two demanding degrees. Working with students like Calyn has been one of the most rewarding parts of my time at SEMO.”
Although the two majors vary academically, Hartmann notes they share high expectations and heavy responsibilities.
“In both, you’re working toward a field where people rely on you,” she said. “In both programs, the faculty work hard to get you connected with people who can help you start your career. You never know where it’s going to take you. Just try it. At the end of the day, it’s your life.”
Hartmann says she hopes to fly professionally first and possibly return to medical school later. Whatever her final path, she says SEMO has been the right place for a student with big goals.
“We’re always willing to be flexible and supportive-our goal is to help students succeed, even when their paths are ambitious and unconventional,” said Sullivan.
For more information about SEMO’s aviation and biology programs, visit semo.edu.