The Psychology Club hosted its “Hearts, Minds, and Valentines” event this past Tuesday, encouraging students to bring a partner or friend to learn more about one another and explore their relationship.
Tyler McShane, Vice President of Psychology Club, explains the thought process behind the event.
“Me and most of my friends are all in relationships,” McShane said. “The events that we’ve had are events you can do with someone else, but they’re not events that are specifically for that purpose. I thought it would be cool if we had something like that.”
The event featured gift bags tailored to couples, as well as free food and backdrops for photo ops.
Helping facilitate the event was Christine Romano, assistant professor of Psychology and Mental Health Counseling at Pace and a certified sex therapist. She gave a presentation at the event on relationship wellness and communication, and hosted activities to strengthen relationship bonds.
“We’re having romantic couples do love-map questions, which helps them not only become more aware of themselves, but become more aware of their partner and of their relationship as a whole,” Romano explains. “We want to help people understand how them and their partner like to receive and give love”.
Other members of Psychology Club’s E-Board emphasize the importance of hosting the event, and what they hope students took away from it.
“I think our overall goal was really to bring something different to campus,” said Annalia Pantaleon, treasurer for Psychology Club. “There was never many events for couples or interpersonal relationships, and this event feels like our baby.”
“When you’re in relationships, and especially when you’re more insightful about yourself and your partner, it can only enhance the relationship and make the world a better place,” said Jayleen Leon, secretary for Psychology Club. “I hope that this is something folks can do here and outside of this event, so they can understand how important interpersonal relationships are for everyday life.”
After a successful event, the club hopes it will continue after the current leaders graduate.
“I really hope that after we’re not in the club anymore, this would be something that future members can continue on,” said Leon.