Erin Spencer

Erin Spencer
  • Hometown: Hereford, MD
  • Major(s): Ecology & Marine Science
  • Archived Blogger

About Erin Spencer

Hey all! My name is Erin and I’m a proud member of the Class of 2014! Since graduating from W&M, I worked in DC at National Geographic and Ocean Conservancy before completed my MS in Ecology at the University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill. Now, I am pursuing my PhD in biology at Florida International University where I study shark biology and conservation.

At W&M, I completed a self-designed major in Ecology and minor in Marine Science. I was also a Monroe Scholar, and completed an honors thesis on an invasive species of fish called lionfish.

On campus, I was a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma and was involved with a number of alumni relations groups, including the Development Ambassadors and the Student Alumni Council. I also interned in the Admission Office and was a DC Summer Institute Fellow. When I wasn't in the lab, you would find me lounging on the Terrace or with my friends down by Lake Matoaka.

My time at W&M was better than I ever could have imagined. From spontaneous adventures (like late night football in the pouring rain), to deep heart-to-hearts with my hallmates, I had so many memorable experiences.

Posts by Erin Spencer

4 Things I Wish I Knew When Applying to Graduate School

While the path to college is pretty well defined, the path to graduate school is…less so. I decided that I wanted to attend William

Picturing Myself at W&M

I got my first William & Mary t-shirt when I was six years old. My parents and I were on vacation in Williamsburg, and I

In Defense of Being Alone

For the next month, I’ll be studying invasive species management in Fiji on a National Geographic Young Explorers Grant. Follow along with the journey. I

Welcome to Fiji

For the next month, I’ll be studying invasive species management in Fiji on a National Geographic Young Explorers Grant. Follow along with the journey at

Advice from a (somewhat) recent graduate

The first time I felt old, like really old, was when I met about twenty William & Mary students on the steps of the

What I learned from rejection

I had my first big rejection last week. I mean big. The crushing, leaves you speechless type of rejection. In February, I submitted a

Dear Class of 2014

Think of your greatest fear. Maybe it’s something tangible, like spiders or snakes. Maybe you’re afraid of the dark or of losing a loved

What I want to be when I grow up.

There are three questions every college senior gets asked. You’re a senior?! How does it feel? Do you know what you’re doing in May?

This could change your life.

Have you ever faced a moment that might change your life? Do you remember the feeling? It’s a lot of nervous anticipation combined with