How do we live the fullest life possible? A Fordham course once featured on NBC’s Today show gives students the tools to cultivate a peaceful mind and live a happier life.
What Makes This Class Distinctive
Many universities offer courses that teach students how to improve their well-being, but this course—The Psychology of Personal Well-Being: How to Live a Happy Life—is rooted in Fordham’s Jesuit educational tradition.
“We blend contemporary research on flourishing with centuries-old contemplative practices to explore how to live in a compassionate way, beyond self-absorption, and how to contribute to the welfare of the human community,” said David Marcotte, S.J., who has taught the course since 2018.
The Professor
Father Marcotte is an associate clinical professor of psychology. His research focuses on the relationship between socialization and personality, especially in underprivileged groups.
He conceived the course as a response to the growing mental health crisis in youth and the struggles so many young people face. His goal is to help students build resilience, using strategies grounded in research, and empower them to live their fullest life.
“I want to help them identify the unique parts of their experience … and to understand how their story is coming together at this stage in their life and where they want to go,” said Father Marcotte.
Who Takes the Course
The course is open to all undergraduates. It is divided into lectures, group discussions, and labs where students practice new skills together. Each class begins with a brief meditation. Students maintain weekly meditation records and gratitude journals, in addition to completing regular assignments.
Required Reading
One of the most popular course topics is practicing self-compassion, said Father Marcotte.
“This can help us be more compassionate toward ourselves when we make mistakes, feel like we haven’t really lived up to our potential, or fail at something,” he said. “It can give us a feeling of self-esteem and patience so we can persevere in difficult challenges.”
Most Interesting Assignment
Students are tasked with writing their own autobiography. They identify high points, low points, and turning points, as well as lessons learned. Some students portray their experiences through art such as paintings, videos, playlists, and photo collages. They can choose to share their story with classmates.
“That can be a pretty moving experience because what comes forward are really extraordinary struggles and triumphs,” said Father Marcotte. “The question I often ask them is, ‘What are these high points, low points, and turning points asking of you now?’”
What Students Are Saying
“The course's demand for personal reflection is very eye-opening and special. In our busy lives, college students don't tend to actively consider how they can make their lives personally meaningful or improve their overall well-being. I think any Fordham student could greatly benefit from taking this class.’”
—Anonymous course evaluation submitted by a student
“Every time after I leave the class I feel so much happier and with a peaceful mind.”
—Anonymous course evaluation submitted by a student
“This class helped me to become a more positive and grateful person.”
—Anonymous course evaluation submitted by a student