J. Drew Lanham
Clemson University
Clemson, SC USA
"Take more chances."
Career Roadmap
J. Drew's work combines: Science, Education, and Teaching / Mentoring
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Day In The Life
Skills &
Education
Advice for getting started
I wanted to study zoology and ornithology. Others discouraged me away from it. They said that Black kids don't do that—I should study engineering instead. I also received an engineering scholarship, so I thought it best to use that so my mom wouldn't be burdened by tuition costs. I spent three years in engineering and hated it. When I finally changed my major to zoology, I was much happier. I had to figure out what I was not passionate about before I could pursue what I was passionate about.
Here's the path I took:
High School
Bachelor's Degree
Zoology/Animal Biology
Clemson University
Graduate Degree
Zoology/Animal Biology
Clemson University
Doctorate
Forest Resources
Clemson University
Life & Career Milestones
My path in life has been direct
1.
I was born and raised in Edgefield, South Carolina, where I was surrounded by nature.
2.
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.
3.
After receiving a full ride engineering scholarship, I decided that going to school for engineering was the best choice.
4.
I spent three and a half years studying engineering and even had an engineering internship that paid me really well, but I hated it.
5.
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.
6.
I also went on to earn my doctorate in forest wildlife.
7.
I’ve been a professor of wildlife ecology at Clemson University, my alma mater, for over 25 years now.
8.
In addition to my work as a professor, I’m also a published author writing about my experiences as a birder and hunter.
Defining Moments
How I responded to discouragement
THE NOISE
Black kids don't really do zoology. Who wants to be a zookeeper for the rest of their life? You should become an engineer.
How I responded:
I wanted to study zoology and ornithology. Others discouraged me away from it. They said that Black kids don't do that—I should study engineering instead. I also received an engineering scholarship, so I thought it best to use that so my mom wouldn't be burdened by tuition costs. I spent three years in engineering and hated it. When I finally changed my major to zoology, I was much happier. I had to figure out what I was not passionate about before I could pursue what I was passionate about.