Female Kingfisher catches a gunnel. Ediz Hook. Photo by Dee Renee Ericks

By Rhonda Coats; Photos by Shannon Hamblin, PAHS

Following her presentation to the OPAS chapter last Wednesday evening, Joanna Wu, a UCLA PhD candidate in Ornithology, spoke to an engaged group of Port Angeles High School science students. Using only two slides, Joanna inspired the students with the story of her life path from her early childhood to her
current PhD studies at UCLA focused on the study of female birds.

Joanna Wu speaking to Port Angeles High School science students.

Joanna formed her love of nature early in life, growing up near her grandparents’ agricultural village in China. Her love continued amid the natural beauty of the San Francisco Bay Area as a grade schooler and an undergraduate student at UC Berkeley where she got her start as an ornithologist. Wanting a change of venue, Joanna pursued her master’s degree in ecology at the University of Hawaii. There she studied the ‘Ōma’o, a thrush native to Hawaii—and she developed her surfing skills as well!

Joanna’s professional career began as a biologist with the Institute of Bird Populations, which was then headquartered at Point Reyes Station, California. In this time frame Joanna gave birth to her daughter, whom she describes as “the love of my life.” She later worked in climate change analysis and communications for the National Audubon Society (NAS).

After five years with NAS, Joanna realized that pursuing a PhD would be required to further her ornithology research. Asked why bird research is important, Joanna explained that learning about the conditions required for birds to thrive provides scientists with “indications” as to the health of our planet Earth for supporting all life forms, including our own human species!

A student asked, “What advice would you give to your younger self at the start of your career?” Joanna answered, “Learn to throw off discouragement when you think you have failed. When you do not get the grade or the job you think you deserved, know that it is not personal. Just stay facing forward, and you will find the path meant for you!”

Thank you to Shannon Hamblin, PAHS science teacher, who organized this guest speaker opportunity and provided the photos.