Behavioral Sciences Study Abroad Program in Croatia with Dr. Kori Ryan
Dr. Kori Ryan, professor in the Behavioral Sciences Department, and Alyssa Annese, Academic Advisor in Trio SSS Student Services, are leading a study abroad program to Croatia this spring break. As part of this 3-credit course, the group traveled to Croatia to apply/see what they have been learning in class this semester. Students first visited Lukerjenica, a local NGO, and compared governmental approaches to mental health like funding challenges and stigma that limit access to mental health services both in the US and Croatia. They also discussed medication, therapeutic interventions, and the role of family in managing mental health. Students learned about the Living Library which is an informal Human Rights Education method approved by the Council of Europe - Directorate of Youth and Sport. It aims to foster mutual understanding, tolerance and respect for Human Rights and Freedoms and was started in Lithuania in 2007. The students have immersed themselves in Croatian culture through a local dance class, walking tours of Old Town/Dubrovnik walls, delicious cuisine, a paint class taught by local artists and more!
Students also had the opportunity to see breathtaking views of Dubrovnik during their cable car ride up to the War Museum. API staff shared their own experiences of the Croatian War for Independence and the impact it had on civilians/soldiers. Despite the conditions, the Croatian people found ways to find joy through basement parties and community. Students asked questions about the long term effects of the war and were very engaged in discussions.
Tomorrow students will be visiting Durbovnik's largest war veterans organization and attend a support meeting. Students will listen and share (including our own veteran students) with the organization about their experiences, support services, etc. Students will then travel to the capital city of Zagreb and end the program with a city tour.
When the group returns, they will be presenting to the campus community on their experiences with this course in Croatia as part of their final grade. Student presentations will be held on April 17 at 12:30 in the McKay Building (room tbd) and the Undergraduate Research Conference on April 18 (room tbd).
See more photos here;
Interested in studying abroad or leading a program abroad? Contact inthelp@fitchburgstate.edu for more information!