Drs. Kelly Torres and Kate Green and eight students across various bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs at The Chicago School participated in a study abroad program visiting Australia in December 2023.
The program offered students a thorough understanding of how psychology, education, mental health, and organizational practices integrate seamlessly with the Australian landscape. Students explored the intersection of these fields across diverse educational and professional contexts with a special focus on the diverse cultural fabric of Australia’s indigenous populations.
Notably, participants immersed themselves in the Australian environment, fostering a distinctive global outlook and refining their cultural competence for future professional endeavors. Engaging with professionals in education, business, and counseling provided valuable insights into the varied approaches, achievements, and challenges these sectors encounter in the Australian setting.
During the program, students delved further into the intricate relationship between mental health and environmental concerns, investigating the impact of issues such as wildfires on the collective psyche. The course addressed other pressing challenges such as substance abuse and high suicide rates, fostering a nuanced understanding of their implications for overall mental well-being.
A visit to One Door Mental Health provided meaningful viewpoints into prominent mental health initiatives in Australia. Students also engaged in a roundtable discussion on workplace wellness, exploring organizational support for employees.
Visiting organization ID. Know Yourself offered perspectives on how Aboriginal populations approach self-discovery and personal development, enriching the study abroad experience.
Interactions at the My Sound Wellbeing Sydney Knowledge Hub provided a platform for robust discussions with faculty, aligning with students’ professional and research interests.
Another highlight was a visit to Our Big Kitchen, where students participated in a cooking contest, preparing more than 60 meals for the local community.
Cultural excursions to landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House and the Blue Mountains offered enlightening observations of Australia’s cultural diversity and natural beauty, complemented by encounters with the country’s remarkable wildlife.
This immersive global experience allowed students and faculty to expand their academic horizons while gaining a profound understanding of Australia and creating lasting memories.