28/04/25
Blog
Part 1: From the Master of Advanced Studies in Humanitarian Action to a career in International Organisations: UN, ICRC, MCS
In 2015, a cohort of humanitarian professionals from around the world completed their Master of Advanced Studies (MAS) in Humanitarian Action at the Geneva Centre of Humanitarian Studies.
Today, they contribute to humanitarian action and international cooperation across a wide range of fields — from international organisations to community initiatives, from operational roles to research and advocacy.
Their own words best capture the impact of this journey. In this first part of our alumni series, meet Meilian, Rafael, Celeste, and Constanza, who each pursued a career within leading international organisations.
Meet Meilian from China
Senior Programme Officer and PR Team Leader, Trilateral Cooperation Secretariat (TCS), Seoul
What made you choose the MAS in Humanitarian Action at the Geneva Centre of Humanitarian Studies?
“The Master’s programme, renowned for its strong reputation and recognition by numerous organisations, made me more marketable and attractive to employers in humanitarian and international sectors.”
Coming from a background in international journalism, Meilian wanted to complement her experience with a deeper academic foundation in humanitarian action and global affairs.
How did studying in Geneva impact your professional development?
“Studying in Geneva, at the heart of international organisations, was an eye-opening experience. It exposed me to a vibrant professional community and shaped both my personal and professional journey.”
During her MAS, Meilian (top right) built a network with practitioners from UN agencies, NGOs, and academia — connections that later helped her transition from journalism to humanitarian public affairs.
What role did the Centre play in your career development?
“The support and mentorship provided by the faculty and staff at the Centre were instrumental in guiding my career path.”
Meilian developed key competencies in humanitarian policy, negotiation, and international communication, which continue to underpin her work today.
What makes the Centre stand out compared to other institutions?
“The Centre’s exclusive focus on humanitarian action, its location in Geneva, and its strong network of experts make it truly unique among academic institutions.”
Beyond academics, what personal impact did your time at the Centre have?
“Engaging with the stories and experiences of my classmates deepened my appreciation for the importance of humanitarian action. It offered transformative experiences that shaped my path in profound ways.”
Meet Rafael from Brazil
Programme Officer, UNHCR Lebanon
How did the MAS impact your career?
“The Centre has been a major benchmark in my career development. It changed my life forever for the better.”
Before starting the MAS, Rafael was working with UNHCR in Brazil. After graduating, he moved into increasingly senior roles in Switzerland, Mexico, Angola, and Lebanon, managing protection and programme activities across complex humanitarian contexts.
What were the most valuable aspects of the programme for you?
“The practical and hands-on studies, combined with the exposure to an international environment, were transformative. The MAS helped me systematise my field experience into a more strategic, analytical approach to humanitarian response. The interaction between students, professors, and practitioners created a space where I learned to link operational realities with humanitarian policy frameworks.””
What sets the Centre’s approach apart?
“The Centre’s strong emphasis on interaction — between professors, students, and guest speakers — made the learning experience dynamic and deeply enriching.”
Meet Constanza from Columbia
Programme Coordinator, MSC Foundation
How did the MAS shape your professional perspective?
“Being at the Centre opened my perspective to humanitarian aid. It complemented my background in development cooperation and gave me new insights and skills.”
Before enrolling in the MAS, Constanza had accumulated years of experience in development work.
The programme allowed her to pivot towards humanitarian programming, strengthening her ability to design and manage initiatives in emergency contexts.
After graduation, she worked on migration and integration projects in Switzerland before joining the MSC Foundation NGO, where she currently coordinates humanitarian projects linking private-sector resources to vulnerable communities.
What lasting impact did the MAS have on your work?
“The Centre’s emphasis on strong management skills and operational accountability continues to shape how I design and implement humanitarian programmes today.”
What do you see as the Centre’s broader contribution to the humanitarian sector?
“The Centre plays a crucial role in the professionalisation of humanitarian work, ensuring that humanitarian operations are managed with greater efficiency, responsibility, and impact.”
Shaping Humanitarian Careers
The experiences of Meilian, Rafael, and Constanza reflect the many ways advanced academic training can support humanitarian professionals to expand their skills, deepen their networks, and adapt to a changing humanitarian landscape.
At the Geneva Centre of Humanitarian Studies, we are committed to shaping the future of humanitarian professionals — by offering tools and space for critical reflection, strengthening knowledge, and building connections across the humanitarian sector.
Stay tuned for Part 2 of our series: “Humanitarian Action at Community Level: Protection, Social Work, and Advocacy.