From the spark of curiosity about the human brain to the fascinating revelations of behavioral patterns, Psychology students work hard to foster a better understanding of the human experience. At Fairfield University, the Psychology program is one of the largest programs in the College of Arts and Sciences. On campus, Psychology Club is more than just a space to explore the complexities of the human mind—it’s a vibrant community where students of similar interests can come together and thrive.
Senior Clare McGuinness is the president of this club and with a major in Behavioral Neuroscience and minor in Health Studies, she is no stranger to this world of psychology. During her first year here at Fairfield, McGuinness joined Psychology Club as a way to meet new people with similar interests to her. She explained that she also joined because, “I have always been passionate about mental health awareness, and I could see myself pursuing a career in the psychology-related field.”
McGuinness has been an active member of this club since her first year on campus and now runs the whole organization as the president. She explained the importance of Psychology Club and said, “The main goals are not only to support psychology and behavioral neuroscience majors in their studies and career preparation, but also to be a welcoming place for anyone who shares in our mission of spreading mental health awareness and connecting with others.”
She believes in the power of fostering a supportive environment where students can learn, grow and engage with one another in meaningful ways.
Psychology Club hosts many events throughout the year including a mental health fair, a post-graduate panel, a study abroad info session and general club meetings to connect with others. McGuinness also explained that, “We work with the Office of Student Engagement to assist in their Fresh Check Day, and we work closely with Counseling and Psychological Services to support their programs.” Fresh Check Day is an event hosting yearly that promotes mental health services and educational insights on suicide prevention.
The biggest event for Psychology Club is their annual Suicide Prevention Walk which is in collboration with The American Foundation of Suicide Prevention. Throughout the year, Psychology Club hosts many fundraising events for the walk.
McGuinness explains that, “The goal of the walk is to spread awareness about suicide, but also to raise funds to help those in need.”
This year, the annual Suicide Prevention Walk is happening April 6 at 2 p.m. Check in will be at 1 p.m. at the Stag statue. You can register for the event online on Fairfield University’s Donor Drive.
Mcguinness wants everyone to know that, “There will be speeches, friendship, clothing from Here For You and a short walk around campus. Don’t miss this opportunity to stand together as stags!”
McGuinness believes in the importance of psychology. She explains that, “No matter what field you pursue after graduation, you will use psychology, especially while interacting with others. The Psychology Club will prepare you with skills to strengthen your interpersonal relationships.”
She also recognizes that mental health is one of the most important topics of psychology. She says, “The more people talk about mental health, the less stigmatized it will be.” She encourages everyone to join the Psychology Club because she believes it offers a safe open space where people can engage in meaningful conversations about mental health and the world of psychology.