J. Drew Lanham
Ecologist, Birder, & Professor of Wildlife Ecology
Clemson University
Clemson, SC USA
“Take more chances.”
Videos
By Roadtrip NationJ. Drew Lanham
Milestones
My road in life has been direct.
I was born and raised in Edgefield, South Carolina, where I was surrounded by nature.
I became interested in birds early on and wanted to study zoology and ornithology, but I was discouraged by people telling me that Black kids don’t do that.
After receiving a full ride engineering scholarship, I decided that going to school for engineering was the best choice.
I spent three and a half years studying engineering and even had an engineering internship that paid me really well, but I hated it.
I finally made the decision to change my major and earned both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees in zoology, which I was much more passionate about.
I also went on to earn my doctorate in forest wildlife.
I’ve been a professor of wildlife ecology at Clemson University, my alma mater, for over 25 years now.
In addition to my work as a professor, I’m also a published author writing about my experiences as a birder and hunter.
Keep following my journey
Education
High School
Bachelor
Zoology/Animal Biology
Clemson University
Zoology/Animal Biology
Clemson University
Graduate
Zoology/Animal Biology
Clemson University
Zoology/Animal Biology
Clemson University
Doctorate
Forest Resources
Clemson University
Forest Resources
Clemson University
Career
Ecologist, Birder, & Professor of Wildlife Ecology
I teach courses in the forestry and environmental conservation department and am also a published author.
Career Roadmap
My work combines:
My work combines:
Science
Education
Teaching / Mentoring
Hurdles
The Noise I Shed
"Black kids don't really do zoology. Who wants to be a zookeeper for the rest of their life? You should become an engineer."
Interviewed By
Leap & Grow
See what South Carolina has to offer
