Undergraduate Humanitarian Studies Student Spotlight: Aidan Auel
March 16, New York — Aidan Auel lives by the quote, “One person can make a difference, and everyone should try,” and try he might. A Humanitarian Studies major, Aidan knew he wanted to pursue a career in the humanitarian sector after working for a defense investigator in highschool.
“Although this was an amazing opportunity, I decided I wanted to learn about issues and inequalities on a larger global scale,” Aidan explained. “So many people in the United States and abroad need humanitarian attention because of the political policies that are in place.”
Aidan grew up in Maryland, just outside Washington, D.C. He was part of the Global Ecology Program at his high school, where he learned about the environment’s impact on his community and others worldwide. Aidan was also an Eagle Scout and president of the Leo Club, a service organization in his town. He attributes these activities to recognizing and understanding his community and the issues facing it.
While looking through the majors that Fordham University offers, Aidan discovered their Humanitarian Studies program, and it “immediately piqued” his interest. One of his favorite classes in the major was “Evolution of Development and Humanitarian Aid Systems” with Anna Levy. He worked with a group to create a policy brief about welfare and economic inequality in the U.S.
Aidan described the class as “extremely difficult” but said it “allowed us to understand the complexity of engaging humanitarian systems and the importance of all members of society in policy decisions.”
His interest continued to grow after joining Rose Hill’s Humanitarian Student Union (HSU); he said, “I loved the weekly discussions they held. We talked about real issues and their complexity. I learned so much from these meetings and loved attending them.” Aidan is now the Communication Director of HSU.
One of Aidan’s favorite things about the program is how engaged and caring the students are. “They are some of the best people I know,” he said. “Humanitarian students don’t just look at the surface level of issues, but dig deeper and look for the complexity of international and political situations…I love being surrounded by people who are trying to help others.”
Written by Allison Lecce, IIHA Marketing and Communications Intern
About the IIHA
The Institute of International Humanitarian Affairs (IIHA) prepares current and future aid workers with the knowledge and skills needed to respond effectively in times of humanitarian crisis and disaster. Our courses are borne of an interdisciplinary curriculum that combines academic theory with the practical experience of seasoned humanitarian professionals. The IIHA also publishes on a wide range of humanitarian topics and regularly hosts a number of events in the New York area, including the annual Humanitarian Design for Humanity Summit.
For more information or media inquiries, please contact: Camille Giacovas, Communications & Research Officer, cgiacovas@fordham.edu
