by Cristian Ricaurte Perez
Updated: Jan. 23, 2024
The fall semester began with the introduction of a new program designed to foster collaboration between incoming graduate students and their more experienced counterparts. This initiative, known as the Buddy Program, commenced with a gathering where incoming and returning buddies got to meet each other. Post-meeting, buddies exchanged contact information, with the goal of cultivating a collaborative environment that would be beneficial for those who recently started graduate school and are starting a new life in Baton Rouge
While certain activities were implemented to encourage interaction, some incoming buddies expressed a sense of inadequacy in truly getting to know their partners. One participant shared, "I saw my buddy only two or three times throughout the entire semester. Although she was helpful whenever I reached out, I wish we had more opportunities to come together in official BioGrads activities."
Despite these challenges, some meaningful connections were forged during the semester. Reflecting on the experience, a participant noted, "Since I met my buddy, he has been incredibly kind and polite. Being an international student himself, he understands the unique struggles we face when moving away from our home country." While acknowledging room for improvement, the Buddy Program succeeded in fostering connections that transcended the limitations of a structured setting.
Cristian Ricaurte Perez is a graduate student who works on C. elegans under the supervision of Dr. Alyssa Johnson.