Aidan Anderson

Aidan Anderson’s path to Auburn has been shaped by mentorship, leadership and resilience. From finding community through the National Society for Black Engineers to navigating vision loss while continuing his education, Anderson has built a college experience defined by perseverance and purpose.

Why Auburn

“In high school, I had the opportunity to meet Amber Jackson, a computer science and software engineering alumni and my future mentor, who encouraged me to apply to Auburn. When I visited, I fell completely in love with the school. I loved the campus vibe the red brick buildings, the classic feel with this modern energy.”

National Society for Black Engineers (NSBE)

“NSBE has had a critical impact on my life. Serving as chief of staff and making the transition to president gave me confidence and reassured me that my hard work and dedication are being noticed in my community. The opportunity to give back to an organization that gave me so much has been an honor and truly a humbling experience.”

Living with a disability

“I started having issues with my vision, and it got to the point where I couldn’t see the second line on a vision chart. Everyone’s initial thought was cancer, and when it turned out to be Leber’s hereditary optic neuropathy, I was faced with a choice — quit everything I had worked toward or return to Auburn and fight for my education and the life I had built. The journey wasn’t easy, but it’s one I’m proud of.”

Future plans

“I’m on track to graduate in the summer 2026, and will be pursuing a career in cybersecurity. The work I have done at the McCrary Institute has grown my love for the field and inspired me to pursue it full time. More importantly, I want to continue being a community leader and an advocate for everyone, especially students with disabilities. I wouldn’t be where I am today without guidance from leaders and mentors, and I hope that one day I can do the same for the next generation.”