Friends represent a very important aspect that can help a graduate student stay mentally healthy. The feeling of “this is the worst mistake I have ever made” (as portrayed an exaggerated everywhere by pop culture such as PhD Comics, The Simpsons, 30 Rock, and so on) plus loneliness and stress can make grad students go crazy! That’s why having really good friends not only reduces those feelings but also boosts positive vibes, happiness, and calm during stormy times.
(Friends eating chocolate cupcakes. From left to right: my best friend, Teresa; her lovely French roommate, Sandie; and my awesome Italian roommate, Laura. Such a multicultural photo!)
I feel so blessed for being surrounded by such amazing people here at Duke!
So a brief piece of advice for graduate students everywhere: get a pet (or two, like H&M!) and enjoy your friends’ company. Doing this will definitely prevent you from madness!…
