What are tips for maintaining relationships in the field? (romantic, family, friends, etc.)
Ask a Biologist 7/26/21
My answer is to try to know the next time you’ll see that person, if possible. It makes the time go by so much quicker and it’s a little easier to be apart.
Answers from Biologists:
Communicate to them that it’s not personal if I can’t talk to them as much as I want to.
Be the first to reach out. Send the text, write the letter. Stay relevant.
Be clear about what you’re doing and why you can’t talk as much as you like.
I try to carve out specific time to talk or see them and stick to it.
Include them in what you’re doing, if you can.
Communication! In general, keeping them informed but also sharing all the ups and downs.
Stay proactive in reaching out and keeping in contact, even if irregular.
Send letters.
Using a shared Google calendar to plan time together, regular texting during the day, and gifts.
Be honest and transparent about your work and always stay connected through scheduled check-ins.
Keep talking. Video chats are clutch.
For Biologists dating other Biologists: Make a plan for how you’ll handle moving for careers BEFORE you have to deal with it and make sure you’re with someone who is your equal partner. It’s hard!
Have a plan for when you’ll see them next.
Date a fellow biologist! They understand what you’re going through.
Make sure to call them when you can be fully present.
Carve out specific time to talk and ideally visit.
Get to know your partner/team. Be open to everything and understand diversity of needs.
Don’t start an ID war. It will only end in tears!
Establish expectations. Be honest that you won’t be back on a regular basis to visit.
Bring them to work or do a simulation to help them understand what you do.
Write journals for one another while you’re apart.
Make regular times to call and participate in activities together (watching tv, reading to one another, etc.)
Share photos of what you’re up to to give them a peak into your work life.
Don’t forget to ask them questions about their life and not just tell them about yours.
Video chats and phone calls make such a difference.
When you’re together, be intentional and prioritize quality time together.
Take full advantage of your time off.
Write letters and postcards.
