From classroom to crisis zone, students learn realities of humanitarian work

The Center for Global Health Equity at the University of Michigan, in collaboration with the School of Public Health, recently co-sponsored an immersive spring break workshop aimed at introducing students to the humanitarian response sector. The course, titled “PH 567: Operational Aspects of International Disaster Relief,” drew 27 students from diverse disciplines, including public health, public policy, social work, and environmental studies.
 

The workshop was designed to provide a candid and realistic view of the challenges and complexities of humanitarian work and was co-led by three facilitators, each bringing unique perspectives from nursing and humanitarian leadership, public health, and medicine. The facilitators included Suzanne Gosling, PhD, MSc, RGN, the founder and CEO of Global Humanitarian Professionals and a lifelong professional in the humanitarian aid space; Ryan Rego, PhD, MPH, a former Impact Scholar with the Center for Global Health Equity and a Senior Technical Advisor at the Clinton Health Access Initiative; and Justin Yax, DO, DTMH, the Director of the Division of Population Health at University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center. Together, they provided first-hand insights into the operational aspects of international humanitarian coordination systems, as well as the ethical and logistical challenges faced in the field.

“This course gave me a unique opportunity to gain an in-depth understanding of the humanitarian system, the cluster system, and the complex process involved in deploying culturally appropriate and evidence-based humanitarian responses,” said Isabel Gilbertson, a Master of Public Health student specializing in global health epidemiology. “I greatly valued and appreciated the ability to learn from the instructors and hear about their field experiences and professional journeys.”
 

Zach Sessa, a Master of Social Work student at the University of Michigan, highlighted the course’s interdisciplinary nature and hands-on learning environment. “Being in class with students from public policy, public health, medicine, and social work—spanning undergraduate, graduate, and PhD levels—enriched discussions and broadened perspectives. The instructors were exceptionally well-prepared, open to questions, and fostered a rigorous atmosphere that challenged us to think critically about disaster relief responses and our roles within them.”
Sessa also underscored the value of learning from instructors with extensive field experience. “All three instructors brought a wealth of diverse field experience, making the course concepts tangible, concrete, and engaging. Applying the theoretical frameworks we learned to their real-life experiences deepened my understanding and helped me envision myself working in the field.”
 

The workshop also explored the role of the United Nations Cluster System, minimum standards for protection of civilians, and the practicalities of coordinating health interventions for displaced populations. Students engaged in case studies, simulations, and interactive discussions that reflected real-world scenarios, helping to bridge the gap between academic theory and the practical demands of the field.
 

An important focus of the workshop was equity and the importance of equal, bi-directional partnerships in humanitarian work. Facilitators emphasized the value of listening to and collaborating with affected communities, recognizing that sustainable solutions emerge from understanding local needs and leveraging community strengths.
 

Reflecting on the workshop’s impact, Alana Rodriguez, project manager for student programs at the center noted, “It was a privilege for the center to have Ryan Rego return to share his expertise and contribute to programming with such broad campus appeal. Workshops like this are crucial in shaping the next generation of humanitarian professionals.”

By bringing together passionate and motivated students from various disciplines, the Center for Global Health Equity is dedicated to empowering future leaders who will create lasting, equitable change in global health. We believe that equipping students with real-world insights and skills not only prepares them for impactful careers but also helps build a more just and compassionate world.