Bringing Winthrop’s Psi Chi and Psychology club back to life
Since electing new officers, Winthrop’s Psi Chi chapter and Psychology club have reactivated and rejuvenated their organizations this past semester.
They have recently hosted a “welcome back” pizza party, a bake sale fundraiser and a presentation regarding mental health led by Samsara Soto, who has a doctorate in Counseling Psychology.
Psi Chi was initially founded in 1929, and stands as the International Honor Society for Psychology. Individuals may join local chapters as both professionals and college students.
To become a member of Psi Chi or the psychology club, there is a one-time $15 chapter fee. To become a just member of Psi Chi, there is an additional one-time $55 national fee.
While all Winthrop students are welcome to join the psychology club, there are specific qualifications that must be met in order to become a member of Psi Chi – students are required to have a minimum of 9 hours in psychology credits and to fall within the top 35% of their class.
The advisor and student presidents have taken the time to share their experiences leading the organizations.
Darren Ritzer, a professor of psychology and the department chair with a doctorate in industrial/organizational psychology, serves as the advisor for both organizations.
Regarding the recent increased interest in the organizations, Ritzer said, “I have been the advisor for the psychology club on and off for most of my 22 years at Winthrop and the club is very much dependent upon the enthusiasm and work of the clubs’ officers. Sometimes, as is the case currently, there are officers that take initiative and energize the entire process with their efforts. We are currently in an upswing of the club’s energy due to the current presidents.”
He additionally added, “Since the current group of officers are underclassmen, they will be around for a few years. That is exciting since they are setting the expectations for the groups.”
Dr.Ritzer shared a general word of advice to students about the importance of clubs.
“Involvement in clubs, especially as an officer, is a great thing to put on your resume or CV. It shows that you are multidimensional and get involved above and beyond those that aren’t in clubs.”
Daniel Escobar, a senior psychology major, currently serves as the president of Winthrop’s psychology club.
Escobar commented on a few of the organization’s biggest accomplishments this semester, “We raised a lot of money from our bake sale, so that gives us room to provide better events in the
future. I also think our event with Dr. Soto was a good opportunity for everyone to learn how to do something that many people become psych majors for- supporting the people around them.”
Samantha Willis, a junior psychology major with a social science major, currently serves as the president of Winthrop’s Psi Chi chapter.
Willis has demonstrated a clear passion for the field of psychology.
“I love how psychology helps us understand people- their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. I find it fascinating how individual experiences, personalities, and environments shape who we are. I really enjoy applying psychological concepts to everyday interactions and seeing how they play out in real life,” Willis said.
In regards to reactivating Psi Chi, Willis stated, “When I took on this role, the organization had been inactive, so it was a challenge to bring it back to life. I focused on recruiting members, planning engaging events, and strengthening our presence on campus. It’s been a learning process, but seeing students get involved and passionate about psychology has made it all worth it.”
She continued, “We successfully hosted an interest meeting that had a great turnout, which showed that there is enthusiasm for psychology on campus. We’ve also established a strong foundation for events and collaborations that will continue to grow. At first there were only three officers, and now we have seven amazing and hard working officers!”
For the members of Psi Chi and the psychology club, Willis hopes they “find a sense of belonging and passion for psychology. Whether they’re looking for mentorship, research opportunities, or just a fun way to engage with psychology outside the classroom, I want them to leave feeling inspired and connected.”
While Willis is mainly appreciative of the turnout for events and members joining, she also appreciates the benefits being a part of Psi Chi have given her.
“Being involved has strengthened my leadership skills, expanded my network, and given me a deeper appreciation for collaboration,” Willis said.
For those interested in joining Psi Chi or the psychology club, multiple events will be taking place during the remainder of the semester. The organizations have a service event planned with Pilgrim’s Inn on April 4th. They additionally have a de-stress event planned on April 17th, which will include stress balls, calming music, and group breathing exercises led by professor Soto.
For any inquiries, please contact Dr. Ritzer, at ritzer@winthrop.edu or message the club on Instagram, @wupsychclub.
