Fo Guang University's Department of Psychology continues to cultivate students' professional knowledge and practical abilities through diverse and enriching teaching methods. This year’s Psychology Week, held from May 6 to May 8, filled the campus with both academic vibrancy and joy. The event coincided with the university’s 24th anniversary sports day, where President He Zhuo-Fei led faculty and students in enthusiastic participation, showcasing youthful energy. Meanwhile, various departments planned a series of courses to broaden students' horizons and perpetuate an academic legacy on campus.
The Psychology Week, themed “The Past and Future of the Mind”, was spearheaded by Department Chair Professor Lin Wei-Lun, who, together with a dynamic team of faculty members, presented a variety of engaging and inspiring activities. These events opened the doors to the wonders of psychology, allowing students to explore its charm while deepening their understanding of the field.
Clinical Experience Sharing
The opening lecture, “Clinical Experience Sharing”, featured alumnus Jin Yu-Chen, a clinical psychologist currently serving at the Five Loaves and Two Fish Psychiatry Clinic. Jin returned to share insights about the role and responsibilities of clinical psychologists, enriching students with practical knowledge. Freshman Huang Xi-Qiao reflected on how the lecture clarified the differences among future career paths, provided real-world experiences, and highlighted how psychology can integrate with fields such as rehabilitation and substance abuse prevention, creating diverse possibilities. Huang emphasized that as helping professionals, maintaining humility and prioritizing clients’ well-being are fundamental to providing proper care.
Interactive Lectures: "Our Distance with the Mind" and "Where the Mind Resides"
The subsequent lectures offered challenging and exploratory journeys. Master’s student Jian Shao-Yu, from the Clinical Psychology program, shared his journey after graduation, including a stint in the real estate industry before returning to become a Suicide Care Visitor. His story of rediscovering his passion for helping others inspired attendees. Another speaker, Zhang Jing-Peng, also a master’s student in Clinical Psychology, recounted his experience as a Community Care Visitor, detailing processes such as phone consultations, assessments, regular follow-ups, and resource referrals. Junior student Chen Yun-An remarked that pursuing psychology as a career requires lifelong learning, making it a unique advantage in any people-oriented field. Another junior, Yuan Yu-Tong, expressed gratitude for the speakers' insights, noting that care work, while challenging, contributes significantly to alleviating suffering from mental illnesses and strengthening the social safety net.
Closing Lecture: "My So-Called Failures and Your Dreams"
The concluding lecture, “My So-Called Failures and Your Dreams,” brought a refreshing breeze of hope. Alumna and Psychology Lecturer Pan Jun-Feng (Class of 1991) shared her personal journey, encouraging students to view life as an adventure. She emphasized that as long as one remains true to their aspirations and moves forward with determination, they will find their place. Sophomore Cai Wei-An reflected that the talk reminded her of the importance of exploring interests at one’s own pace, without comparing oneself to others, as everyone has their unique strengths.
A Week of Vibrant Participation
This remarkable Psychology Week attracted nearly 250 enthusiastic participants, showcasing the vibrancy and limitless potential of Fo Guang University students.
The Department of Psychology invites more students to join this journey of exploration and embark on a meaningful adventure into the world of psychology!
For more information about the Department of Psychology:
Website: https://psychology.fgu.edu.tw/
Office Contact: 03-9871000 ext. 27101
1. The Department of Psychology earned second place in the campus sports day’s fun competition.
2. Department Chair Lin Wei-Lun inaugurates Psychology Week.
3. Clinical psychologist Jin Yu-Chen shares his clinical experience with faculty and students.
4. Interactive learning between students and lecturers during the event.
5. Alumna Pan Jun-Feng shares her career and life journey with students.
6. Students and faculty engage in a focus and attention game during the activities.