From Pardee to Purpose: A Student’s Journey in Humanitarian Advocacy
Morgan Cassidy’s time at Frederick S. Pardee School of Global Studies was not just a chapter in her academic journey—it was the foundation of her lifelong passion for international affairs, human rights, and service. Now thriving in her career, Morgan reflects on how her experiences at the Pardee shaped her goals and prepared her for the challenging yet rewarding world of humanitarian work.
“My time at BU, specifically at Pardee, defined my career goals,” she shares. “I was all in on international affairs, especially human rights and humanitarian-related work.”
Morgan’s path began to take shape during her coursework. In Professor Weinstein’s class on leadership in large international organizations, she discovered new confidence in her skills and career aspirations. “That class literally changed the course of my career. I went on to be his GRA because I knew I needed to keep learning from him,” she recalls. Similarly, a course on solving humanitarian crises with Professor Storella helped Morgan find her niche and deepen her passion for the field. These relationships extend far beyond the classroom, as Morgan remains in contact with her former professors, describing them as “lifelong mentors” ready to give helpful advice. She encouraged others to “take advantage of that network at BU. [Because] they really care, and they’re there for you.”
Her master’s thesis, focusing on access to education for refugee women and girls and its impact on their recognition of human rights, exemplified her commitment to meaningful work. But Morgan emphasizes that the journey after graduation was not always linear.
“I had a bit of a hard time transitioning,” she admits. “I was sure I’d go straight to law school, but when I changed my mind, I had to figure out what was next.” A paralegal position in Texas became her first step, a role that helped her build critical skills. “It wasn’t glamorous, but no first job is too big or too small. It taught me how to work with people who’ve experienced trauma and advocate in meaningful ways.” Morgan’s time in Texas provided invaluable fieldwork experience, something she strongly recommends to those pursuing similar careers. Reflecting on the experience, she notes, “We’re not gonna change the world in one year, but we’re gonna slowly inch the boulder that is systemic racism forward.”
Morgan’s passion for service and her resilience eventually led her to the Presidential Management Fellows; she now works at the Department of Homeland Security and focuses on refugee issues. Yet, even in her demanding role, she keeps her perspective grounded. “It’s tough, and it can be sad, but it’s also so empowering. You feel like you’re making a difference, which is the coolest thing in the world to me.” Despite the emotional demands of her role, Morgan’s commitment to advocacy and justice remains unwavering, as she continues to draw inspiration from the impact she makes in the lives of others.
It comes at no surprise that Morgan’s advice to students pursuing humanitarian work is simple but profound: “There’s no one path to service.” As reflected in her own experience, there are many ways to make a difference, what matters is taking that first step to do so: “Whether you go to law school, join the Peace Corps, or work with smaller organizations, what matters most is empathy and a global mindset. Get out there, interact with the people your work is meant to help, and make sure it’s what you want to be doing.”
In addition to her professional achievements, Morgan has also maintained strong ties with the Boston University alumni community. “All my best friends are BU alumni. They’re literally my family,” she says. “What’s amazing about BU is the global network—you feel at home anywhere because you’re always connected.”
When she’s not making a difference in the world, Morgan finds balance through her role as a CorePower Yoga Sculpt instructor. “For me, yoga and staying active are key to de-stressing.” She also recommends joining EDGE, a BU dance team that she greatly enjoyed participating during her time at school.
For Morgan Cassidy, Pardee wasn’t just a school; it was a launching pad for a career built on passion, purpose, and unwavering support from a community that continues to inspire her every day. “I can’t say enough good things about Pardee,” she says. “It’s not about making a million dollars—it’s about following your passion. I wake up every day and love what I do.”