Josefine McBrayer
4th year PhD candidate - University of Utah
GradSWE Mentoring Coordinator Team Lead
Having a pet during graduate school can be very rewarding, but also stressful and difficult. Here is a list of some good questions to think about before you make the commitment of getting a pet.
1.) Do you truly feel the need for a pet? When I first moved to start graduate school, having a pet really helped me from getting lonely, but some people may feel like they already have a sufficient support network and a pet would only add stress.
2.) How much will a pet cost? Can you afford a pet? There are a lot of helpful websites that will help you budget for whatever pet fits you best. It is helpful to create a savings fund in case of emergencies.
3.) Can you combine time with some of your other hobbies with time spent with your pet? For example, I love to run and hike as stress relief, something my dog loves to do with me.
4.) Can you adjust your schedule to follow your pet’s schedule? For example, for a dog, can you get an apartment with a yard or dog door? Is there someone who can help share the responsibility like a roommate or significant other? Can they let your dog out if you have to stay late in lab?
5.) What kind of pet should you get? For example, if you have a well-defined schedule, a dog my be feasible, otherwise, a cat may be a better option.
Once you decide to get a pet, make sure to make them a priority and enjoy time with your new companion.
1.) Do you truly feel the need for a pet? When I first moved to start graduate school, having a pet really helped me from getting lonely, but some people may feel like they already have a sufficient support network and a pet would only add stress.
2.) How much will a pet cost? Can you afford a pet? There are a lot of helpful websites that will help you budget for whatever pet fits you best. It is helpful to create a savings fund in case of emergencies.
3.) Can you combine time with some of your other hobbies with time spent with your pet? For example, I love to run and hike as stress relief, something my dog loves to do with me.
4.) Can you adjust your schedule to follow your pet’s schedule? For example, for a dog, can you get an apartment with a yard or dog door? Is there someone who can help share the responsibility like a roommate or significant other? Can they let your dog out if you have to stay late in lab?
5.) What kind of pet should you get? For example, if you have a well-defined schedule, a dog my be feasible, otherwise, a cat may be a better option.
Once you decide to get a pet, make sure to make them a priority and enjoy time with your new companion.
