Get to know Mercer University‘s faculty members a little better through our “Faculty Flashback” series. Some of our professors will be sharing personal and professional details of their lives in a Q&A as well as then-and-now photos from today and their college days.
Dr. Garland Crawford, associate professor of chemistry, has worked at Mercer for nine years. He hold’s a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Mercer and a Ph.D. in biochemistry from the University of Kentucky.
1. What advice, related to life or college, would you offer students at Mercer now?
Use your time in school to explore as many areas as you can. You never know what you will need later in life or how your interests might change over time.
2. What is something you wish you knew in college that you know now?
Faculty really want to help you succeed. They are wonderful resources of information and experience that students too often under-utilize.
3. What do you love most about your work?
Interacting with students! I really enjoy sharing biochemistry with students and helping them see how this field connects to so many areas of health. There have been so many amazing discoveries over the last few years. This is an exciting time to be studying this field.
4. What is your favorite spot on Mercer’s campus?
Even though my office is in the new Godsey Science Center, I really enjoy being around the Quad. It reminds me of my time as a student.
5. What are some of your hobbies and interests outside of work?
I enjoy reading and working on projects around the house. I also have put together a small bourbon collection and enjoy the hunt for unusual bottles.