Laura Alina teaches the Erasmus Mundus Master's program at KI on Public Health in Disasters

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How did it happen that you started studying disasters specifically?

– I am interested in disasters and natural catastrophes, especially those that occur in conflict-affected environments and are caused by humans in one way or another. I have also worked in search and rescue operations and wanted to learn more about the humanitarian issues that this Master's program focuses on. I missed that during my previous studies,” says Laura Alina Fabic.

Can you tell us a little about your background?

– I studied nutrition and global health at the University of Copenhagen, where I also exchanged studies on human rights. I also have a few years of experience working in humanitarian settings, especially in search and rescue efforts in the Mediterranean. She then undertook a year's training at the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) before starting the Erasmus Mundus Master's program in Public Health and Disasters.

What do you think is the best thing about the show so far?

– For me, the strength of the program lies in its international environment and the advantage of studying with students from different backgrounds and different specializations. Everyone contributes different perspectives and insights, which has been most beneficial to me. Also a big advantage is that most of our lecturers, even those with different backgrounds, are active in the field and work in research institutes, organizations or the United Nations. For example, we had speakers from MSF, Red Cross, Internews, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and World Health Organization (WHO) to name a few.

Do you know what you want to do after your studies?

– Last summer I worked with a health network called Cecosesola based in Venezuela. This experience has inspired me to want to conduct research into self-organized health actors, and I plan to pursue a PhD afterwards. I also hope to work with international volunteer organizations, such as Oxfam or Doctors Without Borders, in conflict- and disaster-affected environments in the future.