From service to social work

At UND, Leader in Action Austin Eskew found the perfect career path to build on the skills he developed as a U.S. Army medic: Social work

Austin Eskew didn’t come to the University of North Dakota looking for a fresh start; he was looking for direction.

While pursuing his Master of Social Work at UND, he approached his studies with a clarity shaped by years of experience as a medic before returning to his studies.

His journey from the military to social work, and to UND, took shape over time, guided by a desire to continue serving others in meaningful ways.

Working in high-pressure situations, Austin supported others through crisis while witnessing the emotional weight of trauma. These moments stayed with him, prompting him to consider what support looked like beyond the immediate medical response.

“I really enjoyed taking care of people,” he said. “But I didn’t want the responsibility of their lives on my hands anymore; that was too much pressure.”

This led Austin to social work, a field where he could redefine service as a commitment to long-term healing. Instead of responding only to immediate need, he saw an opportunity to support people through the longer journey of healing.

“I still wanted to be in a helping field,” he said. “But without that pressure.

Read and watch more about Austin and his successful career at UND.