Psychology students at Eastern Connecticut State University traversed the tundra of the human psyche on a 10-day field course in Iceland this May. Sponsored by the Department of Psychological Science as part of Professors Peter Bachiochi and Jenna Scisco’s field course “Cross-Cultural Well-Being," the trip gave students a look at the mental health of a foreign country.

“This field course was better than I could have ever hoped for,” said senior psychology major Katharine Peterson. “Not only did I get to learn so much about Iceland and its culture, but I also got closer to my classmates and got to visit beautiful places. I am already planning on going back so I can share my experience with my close ones. It truly was a dream come true.” 

According to Bachiochi, Iceland frequently places among the top five countries in the world for happiest people, and the trip took students to various businesses to analyze how social, political and economic procedures affect the psychological environment of a place’s inhabitants.  

“In the course, we studied different definitions of well-being and its contributing factors,” said Bachiochi. “We focused on a wide range of personal- and work-related factors, such as work-life balance, gender equity, healthcare, education, diet, physical activity, time in nature, support of friends and family, LGBTQ+ issues and more.” 

Among the business visits included Kara Connect, Thor’s Power Gym and Hornsteinn, a construction firm. 

“We visited mental health companies, talked with the head of human resources at a construction company, tried Icelandic cuisines and experienced the natural wonders of Iceland,” said psychology major Mackenzie Teper ‘24. “It truly is a beautiful country, with lots of beautiful people who place both nature and well-being high on their list of importance.  

“I also created deeper bonds with my classmates and was able to take home powerful knowledge that I intend to use as a recent graduate entering the psychology working field,” said Teper. 

Senior psychology major Rebecca LeBlanc added to the cultural connections that the group formed and highlighted Iceland’s natural beauty. 

“We were given an opportunity to explore this all through many detailed excursions,” she said. “We made meaningful connections with our tour guides and with one another, which created memories I will hold on to forever. The 'land of fire and ice' holds a majesty that is a sight to behold.” 

Several students said that enjoying Iceland’s beautiful nature was as beneficial as exploring the country’s thriving urban capital. 

"Iceland showed me a very unique way of life,” said senior general studies major Jordan Falotico. “I saw nature used in a respectful and sustainable way, I witnessed work and life balanced in a healthy way and I was able to view land untouched by man for acres.” 

“Every single student as well as our professors were optimistic every day for the journey we had ahead,” added senior psychology major Elyssia Dominguez. “From hiking mountains to endless bus rides to the simplicity of walking around the city of Reykjavík, I created lifelong friendships and memories that I will hold forever.” 

Senior biology major Anne Le and senior psychology major Carly Prentiss both explained that global field courses are great opportunities for students who are considering studying abroad, as well as an excellent opportunity for anyone looking to advance their academic knowledge with diverse perspectives. 

“Participating in a global field course was definitely the highlight of my college career,” said Prentiss. “I would say that if you are not ready for studying a full semester abroad, (these courses) provide a great and very similar alternative to it.” 

“Being able to check Iceland off my bucket list at (age) 21 has felt surreal,” added Le. “I loved every moment I spent in Iceland from the breathtaking nature to the vibrant city life in Reykjavík. I loved spending time with my peers and exploring Iceland.” 

Psychology senior Kevin Garrity said the memories he made through exploring foreign customs were palpable upon returning to the United States and realizing the cultural differences. 

“This trip was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and the memories I made there, I will carry with me for the rest of my life,” said Garrity. “Being able to surround myself with a different culture from my own was a liberating experience, and I found missing aspects of their culture when we came back.”