Catching Up With John Mulhorn!

Forman Scholar John Mulhorn graduated from the University of Pittsburgh in May 2025 with a degree in biology and a minor in chemistry. John plans to complete an accelerated bachelor’s degree in nursing, gain experience working in an intensive care unit and then pursue a doctorate in nursing to become a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist. We recently caught up with John to learn more about his college experience and his plans for the future.

How did you get involved during your time in college? 

During my time at Pitt, I was involved in the Latin Student Association (LSA) and the Latino Medical Student Association (LMSA). I also joined the fraternity Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE), where I held leadership positions, including the Academic Chair for one semester, Philanthropy Chair for two semesters and Diversity Chair for one semester. I was also a member of Pitt’s handball club team during my junior year, when we won the NCAA D2 Club Championship.

What’s your most memorable moment from your college journey?

The most memorable moment of my college journey was graduation. It’s an achievement that only 40% of Americans have, and only 11% of Latinos in the United States have, so it certainly was something to be very proud of. Walking across that stage felt like more than just receiving a diploma; it honored the sacrifices my family and I made to get there. From the long nights and moments of doubt to the community that lifted me along the way, it all reminded me that representation matters, and I hope my journey inspires others to achieve their goals too.

What’s something you know now that you wish you knew during your first semester?

Something I wish I had known earlier in college is the importance of studying consistently and not being afraid to ask for help. As someone who excelled in high school, I felt a lot of pressure to maintain that same level of success. College quickly taught me that struggling sometimes is not a sign of weakness but a normal part of growth. Asking for help, whether from professors, classmates or campus resources, is a sign of strength and self-awareness. Everyone learns at their own pace, and seeking support is how we grow, connect and succeed.

How do you plan on applying the lessons you’ve learned from college to the betterment of your community?

I plan on applying the lessons I learned in college to uplift and support my community by reminding others that everyone’s journey to success looks different. Just because you’re not exactly where you imagined yourself right now doesn’t mean you won’t get there. Setbacks are a natural part of growth, but determination to keep moving forward is what matters most. As a community, we need to be there for each other. I hope to be a supportive voice encouraging others, celebrating their progress and reminding them that as a community, we thrive when we lift each other up along the way.

Why are organizations such as the Forman Acton Foundation so important?

The Forman Acton Foundation is crucial because it makes college accessible for many students, allowing them to graduate debt-free. As someone who received a generous scholarship from my college but not a full ride, having the support from the Forman Acton Foundation played a key role in helping me choose a top-ranked school for my chosen major. Their support truly made a difference. I plan on being involved in the Foundation in the future by being a resource for future students who are following a path similar to mine. Being a Forman Scholar is a badge of pride for me. It represents that my hard work in high school was noticed by others in my community. I am so grateful to join the legacy of the incredible and resilient graduates of Salem High School and members of the Forman Acton Foundation.