Hi, I'm a PhD researcher at the University of Sussex, and I am conducting a study aimed at understanding the experiences of international university students in the UK.
This 10-minute survey explores various aspects of the international student experience, including challenges encountered, formation of social groups, perceived social support, resilience, and overall mental health.
As a thank you, five respondents who complete and pass the attention checks will win £50, and three will receive £25.
Survey Link: https://universityofsussex.eu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0BToJ8UBqsmFCWq
Your participation is crucial in helping us gather a diverse range of perspectives. Additionally, sharing the survey link within your network would greatly contribute to the success of this research.
It is important to note that participating in this study poses no foreseeable risks beyond the normal challenges of daily life. Upon completion, participants will be provided with information about relevant mental health and language support services, should they require them.
Thank you for your time!

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-69017289
More than 60 pages of WhatsApp messages between Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) ministers have been published by the UK Covid-19 Inquiry.
The messages give an insight into the thoughts of some of the party's most senior figures as the pandemic spread.
The WhatsApp group chat covers the period between January and November 2020.
No internal messages between Sinn Féin politicians have been published by the inquiry.
Michelle O'Neill, whose WhatsApp messages from this period were wiped from the devices issued to her as deputy first minister, has told the inquiry that she accepts that these messages should not have been deleted.
"I accept that I should have kept my additional exchanges, in particular with Arlene [Foster], and anything else that was relevant," she said.
But DUP politicians' messages have been published and they are often candid. They include jibes at ministers from other parties in Stormont's executive.
On 17 January, six days after the executive was restored following a three-year-hiatus, a person whose name has been redacted by the inquiry wrote: "SF [Sinn Féin] doesn't seem to have matured at all!"
Emma Little-Pengelly, who was then a DUP special adviser and is now deputy first minister, replied with apparent sarcasm.
"Well, why not - let English taxpayers subsidise our free prescriptions, lower rates, no water charges, lower tuition fees and free prescriptions.. but hey, how dare you guys starve us of funding #Perfidious Albion," she wrote.
'Catholic church hasn't the best track record' Lord Weir, who was education minister at the time, commented on 13 March about the head of the Catholic Church in Ireland writing to him to call for schools to be closed.
The DUP minister said of the Archbishop of Armagh, Eamon Martin: "Wasn't aware of his qualifications in virology."
A person whose name has been redacted replied: "Write back and tell him we don't live in the South [Republic of Ireland] and that his institution hasn't the best track record of looking out for the welfare of kids."
On 14 March, there was criticism of Sinn Féin deputy leader Michelle O'Neill, who was deputy first minister at that time, after she broke ranks with the executive to call for school closures.
Edwin Poots, the DUP agriculture minister at the time, acknowledged that schools would have to close at some point, but said the "response needs to be measured and reassuring".
On 17 March, as the pandemic became more acute, Mrs Little-Pengelly proposed a "four-nations press conference" with the prime minister.
Ministers didn't sleepwalk into pandemic - Foster
DUP Covid lockdown messages published by inquiry
Bobby Storey - Michelle O'Neill says sorry at Covid Inquiry
"All devolved regions with PM on televised conference to reassure people," she wrote.
Mrs Little-Pengelly said the public "need to see leaders speaking", adding that "any confusion compounds panic".
Naomi Long 'hard to listen to' Some messages point towards tensions between executive ministers during meetings to discuss the pandemic.
There were several jibes at Justice Minister Naomi Long, leader of the Alliance Party.
On 7 May, Lord Weir said Mrs Long was "hard to listen to", and on 23 July he wrote: "Naomi talking about wind instruments - oh the irony!"
On 9 November, Lord Weir said Ms O'Neill was "making a pig's ear of this" to which Mr Poots replied: "Comes naturally."
'Sour bake' On 6 August, Lord Weir appeared to refer to an exchange between Mr Poots and Nichola Mallon, at the time the Social Democratic and Labour Party's minister in the executive.
A person then wrote: "Edwin you managed to take her from zero to skywards v v quickly!!"
Mr Poots replied: "It's a speciality of mine. Enjoying the sour bake on her face now."
In another message on 15 June which appears to reference Sinn Féin Junior Minister Declan Kearney, Lord Weir wrote: "Where would we be without Declan's philosophical musings."
A person whose name is redacted replied: "At a shorter meeting."

Hi all, so I'm gonna make this quick. I sort of/partially have feelings for this person. Partially because

1. We've never actually had a decent conversation
2. Im not sure about my feelings either The reason I show interest in this person is because of this person, how she treated me. At first I viewed her as in just like everybody normal, in my college then there's a lot of pretty girls here and there but I'd say she's cute. So my first interaction with her was because my friend wanted data for a physics experiment, I was in the same class with her and basically I was hesitant and I didn't wanna do it but due to the constant begging, I'm like ok it won't hurt I guess. I didn't wanna do it because I don't wanna talk to girls, last time I talk to one it didn't end well. I never dated, she was just an acquaintance I'd say, somehow I'd say something dumb and got pissed off, called me a piece of shit and blocked. This happened twice (this girl and another girl) but I won't go too much in details, in short I was young and basically the way I talk was not respectful, I talk to girls the same way I talk to guys so yea, now I'm more mature but I'm still careful with my words, this all happens in text btw. So yeah, pretty much intimidated by this girl, grew the guts, went up n talk to her. I asked her for the data and she said yes, kinda thought she was gonna be rude abt it but she was surprisingly really nice, she sent it via phone number n yea I to this day still have her phone number.

My next encounter with her was basically me and my friend (the guy who ask me for the data) were at a university, for like course briefing cuz I wanna take computer science. Somehow she was also in this lecture but with a friend. I didn't think too much nor do I bother much, I only cared about myself. But surprisingly, she said hi and ask for my name. It took me by surprise to be honest, I've never been great with being social, I've always been alone and invisible towards ppl, by the time I reached to college I completely abandoned my past, so I have no contacts with past highschool mates. The thought of this kinda just took me by surprise that's all. We didn't talk, I should have tried to initiate too, because I could have had the chance to meet new ppl and friends, but I was very anti social and like I said I only cared about myself, I came from a dark past, so basically social skills is beginner's level.
After the briefing, I encountered her again, it was during an English test. Time's up, paper done, I packed my bag and started to leave but she surprisingly approached me again. She was just asking about the paper, like how is this done, this and that. On my way back, I started to see her differently. Last encounter, not physical, through chat, I was sicked and admitted to the hospital. She was the only person who I knew had the same classes for phys and eng, also I have her hp. So I texted her, saying what I miss, she was very kind about it to provide info. At the moment, I kinda show interest, well is not love at first sight bullshit but just interested, I wanted to know her better.
Present day, it's been few months since we chat, the thought of her kinda graze my mind every now and then. Biggest mistake I made was I should have initiated the conversation more like what do you plan on studying or where do you wanna settle after uni, I thought I could get her to talk to me but I was really shy to converse with her knowing how much I suck at talking to ppl. I only realised this mistake when the new sem started, I should have just ask her out actually, I think she also lived near me according to a conversation I hear with the lecturer and her. Basically, I fucked up. I'm in the same class with her in English only, which in itself is lucky considering there's 31 classes and I got to be in that one class with her. But she had a fair share of friends.
Ok, I'm just gonna talk about her abit. The reason I find her hard to approach is because she had a lot of friends, I don't assume I know, I've seen her alot with her friends and basically there was no room for me to interact. I feel like it be too creepy suddenly text her now, plus I always see with her best friend? So I feel like she's the type of person who doesn't wanna be in a relationship, I don't even know if she has bf or not. I know nothing about her, and trying to know her now would seem to odd. Idk about you guys but I feel like she would be creeped out, cuz I'm like a loner in class and also think is too late thus, impossible to text her. I won't be seeing her as the semester ends, but is finals so that's the time I see her but again won't talk to her cuz again she has a lot of friends so she probably entertain them instead of a loner like me, plus I don't wanna stand out in front multiple people. I was thinking of maybe ask to study together? But two of us is just really weird.. I find it weird too
So what would you guys do in my position? I think is kinda pointless to ask since yk I had the chance I blew it, it took me months to realise I should have initiated the conversation, it doesn't matter if we're dating or not, I just wanna know her and be friends with her, I found myself in a serious of friendship 💀 compared to last year. Feel free to inquire more questions about my situation. Like to see how you guys would go about it, I know I'd said I keep it short but hey wth, might as well go full story mode

Racism and cultural doubtfulness often stem from a combination of historical prejudices, lack of exposure, and misunderstandings about other heritages and cultures. Addressing these issues requires both individual and collective efforts to foster understanding, empathy, and respect. Here’s how we can navigate and improve our interactions with diverse heritages and cultures:

Understanding Racism and Cultural Doubt

Roots of Racism

• Historical Context: Racism is deeply rooted in history, often perpetuated by colonialism, slavery, and segregation, leading to systemic inequalities.
• Stereotypes and Prejudices: Stereotypes and prejudices are ingrained beliefs that simplify and generalize about a group of people, often negatively.

Cultural Doubtfulness

• Fear of the Unknown: Lack of exposure to different cultures can lead to fear or doubt when encountering unfamiliar customs or behaviors.
• Miscommunication: Cultural differences in communication styles, body language, and social norms can lead to misunderstandings and mistrust.

Strategies for Overcoming Racism and Cultural Doubt

Education and Awareness

• Learn About Other Cultures: Actively seek out information about different cultures through reading, attending cultural events, and engaging with diverse media.
• Understand Historical Contexts: Study the history of racism and the experiences of marginalized groups to understand the systemic nature of discrimination.

Building Empathy and Understanding

• Engage in Dialogue: Have open, respectful conversations with people from different backgrounds to learn about their experiences and perspectives.
• Practice Active Listening: Listen with the intent to understand rather than respond. This helps in appreciating different viewpoints and reducing biases.

Challenging Stereotypes

• Question Assumptions: Reflect on your own beliefs and biases. Challenge stereotypes by seeking evidence and considering individual differences within cultural groups.
• Highlight Positive Examples: Promote and celebrate positive stories and contributions from diverse cultures to counteract negative stereotypes.

Promoting Inclusivity

• Inclusive Language: Use language that respects and acknowledges diversity. Avoid terms that are derogatory or perpetuate stereotypes.
• Diverse Representation: Support and advocate for the representation of diverse cultures in media, workplaces, and educational materials.

Practical Actions for Individuals

1. Self-Reflection: Regularly reflect on your own biases and work towards becoming more open-minded and accepting.
2. Cultural Exchange: Participate in cultural exchange programs or activities that promote mutual understanding and respect.
3. Support Diversity: Support businesses, artists, and leaders from diverse backgrounds. This helps in promoting economic and social inclusion.
4. Educate Others: Share your knowledge and experiences about different cultures with friends, family, and community members to spread awareness.

Practical Actions for Organizations

1. Diversity Training: Implement regular diversity and inclusion training for employees to educate them about different cultures and combat racism.
2. Inclusive Policies: Develop and enforce policies that promote equality and protect against discrimination in the workplace.
3. Cultural Celebrations: Celebrate cultural heritage days and encourage employees to share their traditions and customs.
4. Support Networks: Create support networks and affinity groups for employees from diverse backgrounds to share their experiences and support one another.

Creating a Culture of Respect

• Empathy Building: Encourage empathy by sharing personal stories and experiences within the community or organization.
• Collaborative Projects: Promote collaborative projects that require teamwork and cooperation among people from diverse backgrounds.
• Open Forums: Organize open forums and discussion groups where people can express their concerns and ideas about racism and cultural doubtfulness.

Conclusion

Addressing racism and cultural doubtfulness requires a commitment to continuous learning, open dialogue, and proactive efforts to foster inclusivity and respect. By understanding the roots of these issues and actively working to overcome them, we can build a more equitable and harmonious society where diversity is celebrated and everyone feels valued.
Aligned by to a fake identity you have built to people you don't know or close even and encounter all the resentment forms at all levels
Living behind a facade or a fake identity can be emotionally exhausting and ultimately damaging to personal well-being and relationships. When this facade begins to crumble or when individuals encounter resentment from others as a result, the effects can be profound. Here’s a guide to addressing this situation, rebuilding authenticity, and dealing with resentment at all levels:

1. Self-Reflection and Acceptance

Understand Your Reasons

• Identify Motivations: Reflect on why you felt the need to build a fake identity. Common reasons might include fear of rejection, a desire for approval, or past traumas.
• Acknowledge Feelings: Recognize and accept the feelings of guilt, shame, or fear that might be associated with living a false identity.

Commit to Authenticity

• Value Authenticity: Understand the importance of being true to yourself. Authenticity leads to more genuine relationships and personal fulfillment.
• Set Intentions: Decide to live more authentically moving forward. This includes being honest about your feelings, beliefs, and identity.

2. Gradual Revelation and Honest Communication

Start Small

• Begin with Close Ones: Start by being honest with those you trust the most. Explain why you felt the need to create a fake identity and express your desire to be more authentic.
• Be Patient: Understand that revealing your true self is a process. Take gradual steps to dismantle the facade.

Honest Communication

• Apologize Sincerely: If your actions have hurt others, offer a sincere apology. Acknowledge the impact of your fake identity on your relationships.
• Explain Without Justifying: Explain your motivations without making excuses. Help others understand your perspective and the pressures you faced.

3. Handling Resentment

Empathy and Understanding

• Listen Actively: Allow others to express their feelings and frustrations. Listen without interrupting or defending yourself.
• Acknowledge Their Feelings: Validate their emotions. Understanding that their resentment may stem from feelings of betrayal or hurt is crucial.

Rebuilding Trust

• Consistent Behavior: Show through your actions that you are committed to being authentic. Consistency over time helps rebuild trust.
• Transparency: Be transparent in your interactions. Keep open lines of communication and share your thoughts and feelings honestly.

4. Self-Care and Support

Seek Professional Help

• Therapy or Counseling: Consider seeking help from a therapist or counselor. They can provide guidance and support as you navigate this complex emotional terrain.
• Support Groups: Join support groups where you can share your experiences and learn from others who have faced similar challenges.

Self-Care Practices

• Mindfulness and Meditation: Engage in mindfulness practices to stay grounded and connected to your true self.
• Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep to support your mental and emotional health.

5. Building Authentic Relationships

New Connections

• Meet New People: Join groups or communities that align with your true interests and values. Building new relationships based on authenticity can be refreshing and fulfilling.
• Shared Activities: Engage in activities and hobbies that genuinely interest you. This will help attract like-minded individuals and foster genuine connections.

Reinforcing Authenticity

• Set Boundaries: Establish and maintain boundaries that support your well-being and authenticity. Avoid situations or relationships that pressure you to revert to inauthentic behavior.
• Celebrate Authenticity: Celebrate the moments when you express your true self. Recognize and reward yourself for being authentic.

Conclusion

Reclaiming your authentic self after living behind a fake identity involves deep self-reflection, honest communication, and consistent efforts to rebuild trust and relationships. By understanding the reasons behind your facade and committing to authenticity, you can overcome resentment and foster more genuine, fulfilling connections. Seeking support and practicing self-care are crucial steps in this transformative journey, ultimately leading to a more honest and satisfying life.

This is my first time using reddit and by doing this—typing all this shit down in here—I feel like I could at least feel less burdened.
I don't know how to start because my mind is a mess right now, so basically:
I am genuinely in love with studying and writing in general (this doesn't necessarily make me an exemplary student tho), however I am currently failing in my academic duties. I have not submitted a single assessment this year nor have I really worked on what I personally wanted to do with my undergrad thesis, and the only thing I do is answer my professors' exams.
I am also the current Editor-in-chief of our college's publication. A leadership position I am unfortunately failing at. I have made so many narrow-minded decisions, and I feel like I should stop my clownery act and resign already despite my deepest wishes not to.
I blame everything on my own laziness, stupidity, and some of my other unresolved issues, some of which I couldn't even identify.

Regarding my academic life: I just can't find the drive to simply START my assessments immediately to thr point that I just forget about them and not submit. It seems that I just keep on procrastinating—putting everything off to the side. However, when I do get to start answering an assessment: I just enjoy constructing every single sentence, and if we are given the freedom to add designs, then it's all the better. But with just a few hours in, I just stop. I get mind-blocked. And as aforementioned: I do every other thing besides that assessment until I just forget about it and end up without anything to submit.
It sounds stupid, but it's something I've been deeply struggling with for a whole year now. It's unfortunate as well, since we now have professors who actually care for the things we do, read the shit we submit and gives helpful comments on them.
I am currently trying to catch up with the heap of shit I got to submit.
As for my publication life: I've had the great opportunity to meet great people from every other program/course from both the lower and higher years. Some of those people are now members and officers of the publication, and most of the people I have met are simply, amazing, not for just putting up with my shit and by being kind and open-minded, but for also giving the publication a chance.
I love the publication and the members and officers we have, and I could probably say that I mostly abide by its motto about the truth, but no matter how much I love—how I feel about this publication, I am pretty sure I am currently bringing it more harm than good.
We have a system wherein we would timely post campus events we were requested to cover, but I haven't been able to keep up. I also don't think about asking anybody to post it on our page since I feel like they might be busy. This is especially harmful since my members took photos for those events, and I feel like I'm making them and their efforts feel exploited and unrecognized.
Speaking of our page, it has been so inactive to the point where the presence of the publication is non-existent.
A brand new non-official organization was established recently. They act similar to the publication in many ways, but we don't exactly compete with each other, however we indirectly do due to the vision we share. Most of my members have migrated and my officers have been scouted by that organization due to how the current leader runs things (which I look up to him for) and how thry have more creativr freedom and it has made me feel unneeded and more useless, but that's not their fault.
I've also recently felt so overwhelmed to the point where I've felt like I wanted to vomit everytime I woke up or even think about the publication. Our "Head" for our publication is also pretty much a mess and is someone who I would like to partly blame for the way I am concurrently due to her demeaning and irrational actions and treatment towards me, my officers, and the student leaders she manages directly.
As for my narrow-minded, tunnel-vision decisions, they are so bad to the point I simply want to disappear instead. In fact, I've been deeply considering about ending my life because of how I've fucked up what I envisioned for myself and how they've been affecting the people around me.

I (22F) have been seeing this second year medical student (27M) for several months now. We started off as friends with benefits and that was only supposed to last for three months because I was supposed to leave the country for a year for a teaching job. I didn’t leave until two months later I said I would. We continued to be FWBs but it turned more into a situationship. Whatever we were became blurred as we started going on dates and confessing to each other that we liked each other. We knew our time was running out with each other so we tried to make the most of it by spending as much time as we could. As our final days were approaching I offered to pay for his plane ticket to visit me but he declined because of his schedule so I told him that I would try to visit if I could. We promised each other we would keep in touch. I left the country around the fifth month of us knowing each other and he writes me this long and really heartfelt letter. I take this as my opportunity to tell him I love him and his response is “whoa.” I ignored his response and we continued the conversation we were having, as if I never mentioned anything to him. We talked for about two more months until I asked him what his end-goal was for us. I’ve been out of the country so we’ve been long distance but it hasn’t felt like it. We video call and text every chance we get; when he wakes up and before he goes to bed, and when I wake and before I go to bed. I even call him at work (I work as an English teacher so I have free time majority of the day). And we make hearts before we end every phone call. Anyway, I asked him what his plan was for us when I’m back in the country next year in March. And he tells me that he doesn’t really want to pursue anything right now because of school. I understand but we’ve pretty much been “dating” for the past couple of months now and he would get jealous if I ever brought up men that I thought was attractive. He would always say we were “talking.” I asked him what the point was of him saying we were, “talking” and if he knew where his heart was, why didn’t he tell me sooner. He apologized and told me he doesn’t know why he lead me on for so long and his feelings are genuine. I admit I am to blame for waiting so long to ask him, I think a part of me knew how he felt but wasn’t ready to accept it and wanted to keep pretending. He still wants us to be friends and I don’t want to let him go because I’m very lonely over here and he gave me something to look forward to. I’m his only friend so I think I was his escape from his studies. I’m heartbroken and don’t know what to do. I’m also a bit scared that if I cut things off with him I’ll become depressed from loneliness. Additionally, this is the third guy I’ve been with that has had commitment issues. I don’t know why I haven’t smartened up to see these obvious red flags. How do I avoid this from happening in the future and what are some things that I can do to cope with the way that I feel?
TLDR: I was in a situationship with a medical student that became emotional, but he later admitted he didn’t want a serious relationship. He wants to remain friends. What should I do and how can I prevent this in the future

I feel bad about this a lot of times but my roommate greets me every time i'm awake. sometimes i'm in a mood to socialize and OTHER TIMES thats the last thing i want to do. I'm currently going through the process of cleaning my room, after going through a few traumatic events that caused me to shut down to the point of giving up. because of that.. I have a LOT to do. my bedroom is kind of too much of a mess for me to be in, so I've been spending the night on the couch a lot. I know I have no place to really complain. I have the best roommate for what i'm going through, and we've known each other since we were 5 so we're v close. it's just so hard for me because as i'm going through and getting this work done to try and make my life livable again, it's expending every bit of energy I have, so when I finally sit down to decompress, or it's in the middle of the night and I can't sleep, he will come out to make a sandwich, or go to the bathroom, and always greets me. wow i'm writing this feeling terrible that i'm even complaining. it's just, I do not want to be spoken to and I do not want to feel the need to respond. I also don't like being perceived especially as i'm going through so much mental and physical and emotional triggers as i'm going through my things and sorting through and cleaning. it's so much and i just want to be left alone.. is there any way for me to indicate when that's happening or is that just incredibly rude of me and I should feel bad for wanting to do that, right? or ugh I feel stuck and I keep getting frustrated and then feeling shameful for feeling frustrated when this is all my own fault really. help..?

I'm an 18 year old girl, and I finished my military training about a week ago. My training was longer than usual (mine was a month and a half, while regular training is two weeks). During the training, I started to develop feelings for my department commander, who is 20. We had a strong distance from our commanders so even calling them by their names was forbidden.
I sketched a lot during my training, and when we had the ranges, I tried sketching her (without any pictures or using my phone, of course).
here is the sketch
A week before the end of the training, she placed a few envelopes on the floor with our commanders names on them and gave us time to write notes for them. They would open these envelopes and read the notes after we finished the training and left. The girls in my department got really excited and encouraged me to put the sketch in her envelope, so I did.
The day before our final ceremony, all of my commanders introduced themselves more personally. My department commander told us her first name, last name, and even gave us her phone number. I'm a very anxious person, so right after the final ceremony, I went straight home without trying to talk to her or anyone else.
Now that she's no longer my commander there isn't any distance. After a few days of thinking, I sent her a follow request on Instagram from my drawing account. It has been two days, and she hasn't approved or denied the request. She has 1,254 followers, so I don't think she's only approving people she knows well.
I talked to her alone maybe three times in total during my training and they were very brief talks where I was a socially awkward mess so the fact that I sketched her and sent her a follow on Instagram probably seems kinda creepy. I don't know what I was thinking

Hello. As states in the title I'd like to find someone I can either befriend or at the very least be able to reliably play games with. I don't wish to study social media engineering and ways to create an ideal post that will garner plenty of attention, so I will simply write what I think a decent post that would make me interested would look like.
I am 31 year old male from Poland that lives with depression (it's nor exactly "struggling" at this point, more of an acceptance without ability to fight it), NEET, programming and fantasy nerd with aspergers syndrome, unable to make friends with anyone at all. No longer wish to work on myself, I just want to talk and play games with someone long term. Talking and playing games with people are the only joys I have in life and they are very much hard to come by.
I've figured that showing some things you are proud of could help, here are some of my gaming accomplishments (yes, I know these will be cringy to most people, but these are things I'm genuinely proud of. I hope at least some people would share these sentiments).

• Guild Wars (Full completion and titles except for PvP)
• Star Craft 2 (All non PvP and nongrindy achievements. High diamond league in multiplayer)
• Hollow Knight (Full 112% completion, Panethon 5 All Bindings, reasonably high randomizer skill)
• Slay The Spire (All achievements )
• Heroes of the Storm (All characters acquired, top 200 GM at the peak)
• DotA 2 (pretty high rank, but I don't remember the peak anymore)
• Overcooked 2 (all platinum stars in vanilla campaign)
• Splendor (top 25 player on BGA at one point)
• Cathedral (All achievements)
• Dungeons of Dredmore (highest difficulty win with permadeath)
• VVVVVV (all achievements except Gravitron and deathless)
• Borderlands 2 (Full game, max level and most of the "raid bosses")
• Super meatboy (100% completion, though without deathless achievements)
• Variety of flash games (where servers might no long be active unfortunately)

Again, I do not wish to flex these but simply wish to show that I am proud of something, achievement hunting and honing gaming skill is something I feel most at home with. I wish to share that joy with someone and hopefully make friends. I have ~1000 games available so perhaps there is something we can play together?
Aside from games I have interest revolving around manga, electro music, puzzles, logic, controversial/taboo topics and opinions.
If it peaks your interest at all, please send me a short message describing yourself (1-2 sentences, including asl if you don't mind, I don't want to read a paragraph to start off) and mention a game or a few games you think we might want to play together.
I promise to respond to everyone and provide more info if needed.

Returning to a routine or community after isolating during hard times can be challenging but also transformative. Here are some steps to reintegrate effectively, rebuild relationships, and leverage the lessons learned from your period of isolation:

1. Self-Reflection and Understanding

• Acknowledge Growth: Recognize and appreciate the personal growth and resilience developed during your hard times. Understand the strengths you've gained and how they've prepared you for reintegration.
• Identify Lessons: Reflect on the lessons learned during isolation. These might include coping mechanisms, new skills, or deeper self-awareness.

2. Gradual Reconnection

• Start Slowly: Reconnect with close friends or family members first. Share your experiences in a way that feels comfortable, allowing them to understand your journey.
• Join Group Activities: Participate in group activities or communities where you feel a sense of belonging. This can be a hobby group, a support group, or a professional network.

3. Open Communication

• Share Your Experience: Communicate openly about your hard times and isolation if you feel comfortable. Sharing your story can foster understanding and support.
• Set Boundaries: Be clear about your boundaries and needs. It's important to protect your well-being as you reintegrate.

4. Rebuilding Relationships

• Show Appreciation: Express gratitude to those who supported you or reached out during your hard times. This strengthens bonds and shows you value their support.
• Be Patient: Understand that rebuilding relationships takes time. Be patient with yourself and others as you navigate this process.

5. Creating a Balanced Routine

• Incorporate Self-Care: Integrate self-care practices into your daily routine to maintain the resilience you've built. This can include mindfulness, exercise, or hobbies.
• Set Realistic Goals: Set achievable goals for reintegration, whether personal, social, or professional. Celebrate small milestones to stay motivated.

6. Seeking Professional Support

• Therapy or Counseling: Consider seeking professional support to navigate the emotional complexities of reintegration. A therapist or counselor can provide guidance and strategies tailored to your needs.
• Support Groups: Join support groups where you can share experiences with others who have gone through similar situations. This can provide a sense of community and understanding.

7. Leveraging Your Experience

• Share Your Story: Use your experience to inspire and support others. Whether through writing, speaking, or volunteering, sharing your journey can be empowering for both you and your audience.
• Advocacy: Advocate for mental health awareness or other causes related to your experience. This can give a sense of purpose and contribute positively to your community.

Practical Example: Reintegration Process

Scenario: Returning to Work After a Period of Isolation

1. Self-Reflection: Recognize that you’ve developed new coping skills and resilience.
2. Gradual Reconnection: Start by reconnecting with close colleagues and friends at work.
3. Open Communication: Share with your manager and close colleagues about your time away and any accommodations you might need.
4. Rebuilding Relationships: Show appreciation for colleagues who supported you, and be patient with yourself and others as you adjust.
5. Balanced Routine: Incorporate breaks and self-care into your workday to manage stress.
6. Professional Support: Consider discussing your return with a therapist to navigate any challenges.
7. Leveraging Experience: Use your experience to mentor others facing similar challenges, fostering a supportive workplace environment.

Reintegrating after a period of isolation can be a deeply rewarding process, allowing you to bring newfound strength, insight, and resilience to your life and relationships. By taking a thoughtful and gradual approach, you can rebuild connections and create a balanced, fulfilling routine.
Regain your energy for what you have been missed as a human
Regaining your energy and reclaiming aspects of life you may have missed during challenging times involves a holistic approach that nurtures your physical, emotional, mental, and social well-being. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you restore your vitality and reconnect with the richness of human experience:

1. Physical Health

Nutrition

• Balanced Diet: Focus on a nutritious, balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
• Hydration: Ensure adequate water intake to stay hydrated and support overall bodily functions.

Exercise

• Regular Physical Activity: Incorporate regular exercise into your routine, whether it’s walking, running, yoga, or strength training.
• Outdoor Activities: Engage in outdoor activities like hiking, biking, or gardening to benefit from fresh air and nature.

Rest and Sleep

• Quality Sleep: Prioritize getting 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Establish a consistent sleep schedule.
• Relaxation Techniques: Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or listening to calming music before bedtime.

2. Emotional and Psychological Health

Self-Care

• Mindfulness and Meditation: Practice mindfulness and meditation to reduce stress and increase emotional resilience.
• Journaling: Keep a journal to express your thoughts and feelings, which can help process emotions and gain clarity.

Therapy and Counseling

• Professional Support: Seek therapy or counseling if needed to address unresolved emotional issues and develop coping strategies.
• Support Groups: Join support groups where you can share experiences and find community support.

3. Mental Stimulation

Lifelong Learning

• New Skills: Learn new skills or hobbies that interest you, such as painting, playing an instrument, or coding.
• Reading: Read books, articles, and other materials that stimulate your mind and expand your knowledge.

Challenges and Puzzles

• Mental Games: Engage in puzzles, brain games, and other activities that challenge your mind and improve cognitive function.
• Educational Courses: Take online courses or attend workshops to continue your education and personal development.

4. Social Connections

Reconnecting with Others

• Reach Out: Reconnect with family, friends, and colleagues. Schedule regular meet-ups, calls, or video chats.
• Social Activities: Participate in social activities or join clubs and organizations that interest you.

Building New Relationships

• Networking: Attend networking events or community gatherings to meet new people and expand your social circle.
• Volunteering: Volunteer for causes you care about to meet like-minded individuals and contribute to your community.

5. Spiritual and Personal Growth

Spiritual Practices

• Meditation and Prayer: Engage in meditation, prayer, or other spiritual practices that align with your beliefs and values.
• Reflection: Set aside time for reflection and introspection to connect with your inner self and gain insight into your life’s purpose.

Purpose and Goals

• Set Goals: Define clear, meaningful goals for yourself in various areas of life, such as career, personal growth, and relationships.
• Pursue Passions: Identify and pursue passions and interests that bring joy and fulfillment.

Practical Steps to Regain Energy

1. Create a Routine: Develop a daily routine that includes time for physical activity, self-care, learning, and social interaction.
2. Set Realistic Goals: Set achievable goals to gradually rebuild different aspects of your life. Celebrate small victories to stay motivated.
3. Stay Positive: Maintain a positive outlook and practice gratitude. Focus on the progress you’ve made and the opportunities ahead.
4. Seek Balance: Strive for balance in all areas of life, ensuring you’re nurturing your body, mind, and soul.
5. Be Patient: Understand that regaining energy and reconnecting with life is a gradual process. Be patient with yourself and recognize that it’s okay to take small steps.

By following these strategies, you can restore your energy and rediscover the joys and richness of life, creating a more fulfilling and balanced existence.

Hello. As states in the title I'd like to find someone I can either befriend or at the very least be able to reliably play games with. I don't wish to study social media engineering and ways to create an ideal post that will garner plenty of attention, so I will simply write what I think a decent post that would make me interested would look like.
I am 31 year old male from Poland that lives with depression (it's nor exactly "struggling" at this point, more of an acceptance without ability to fight it), NEET, programming and fantasy nerd with aspergers syndrome, unable to make friends with anyone at all. No longer wish to work on myself, I just want to talk and play games with someone long term. Talking and playing games with people are the only joys I have in life and they are very much hard to come by.
I've figured that showing some things you are proud of could help, here are some of my gaming accomplishments (yes, I know these will be cringy to most people, but these are things I'm genuinely proud of. I hope at least some people would share these sentiments).

• Guild Wars (Full completion and titles except for PvP)
• Star Craft 2 (All non PvP and nongrindy achievements. High diamond league in multiplayer)
• Hollow Knight (Full 112% completion, Panethon 5 All Bindings, reasonably high randomizer skill)
• Slay The Spire (All achievements )
• Heroes of the Storm (All characters acquired, top 200 GM at the peak)
• DotA 2 (pretty high rank, but I don't remember the peak anymore)
• Overcooked 2 (all platinum stars in vanilla campaign)
• Splendor (top 25 player on BGA at one point)
• Cathedral (All achievements)
• Dungeons of Dredmore (highest difficulty win with permadeath)
• VVVVVV (all achievements except Gravitron and deathless)
• Borderlands 2 (Full game, max level and most of the "raid bosses")
• Super meatboy (100% completion, though without deathless achievements)
• Variety of flash games (where servers might no long be active unfortunately)

Again, I do not wish to flex these but simply wish to show that I am proud of something, achievement hunting and honing gaming skill is something I feel most at home with. I wish to share that joy with someone and hopefully make friends. I have ~1000 games available so perhaps there is something we can play together?
Aside from games I have interest revolving around manga, electro music, puzzles, logic, controversial/taboo topics and opinions.
If it peaks your interest at all, please send me a short message describing yourself (1-2 sentences, including asl if you don't mind, I don't want to read a paragraph to start off) and mention a game or a few games you think we might want to play together.
I promise to respond to everyone and provide more info if needed.

For context:
I (27F) left my family's house years ago because I felt suffocated from all the pressure and expectations (was taking accountancy). I left and found a job to support my studies (cause I shifted to a different course during my 4th year).
Due to toxic work environment (workplace bullying and sexual harassment), I resigned. I'm the youngest in the fam so when they heard I resigned, my family contacted me to help them nanny their children cause they're having trouble with their career and couldn't focus on the kids. I paused my career for more than a year now to fulfil my family obligation.
One of my older brothers is a single dad, and he has one child. He told me that he's planning to go to Canada in 2 years. After working there for another 2 years, he plans to get my niece because he said he couldn't possibly endure not being with his only child. But there's a policy in Canada where you cannot leave your child unattended, so he also plans to take me there to take care of my niece while he works. He told me all his concerns about leaving our mom here alone (since my other siblings have families of their own). As for my other siblings, they also want me to watch over their children until they save up enough money to buy a place of their own. And my mother wants me to find a job with an HMO benefit so I can help our relative with any of his medical issues since as per what she told me -- "Wala ka nmn anak or asawa"
My concerns are: 1. Which should I prioritise first? I've put my career on hold but I'm getting older so I feel like I'm wasting my time... And I have zero savings in my name.

1. If I go along with my siblings' plans, how can I save up for my future? What job should I go and try so I can do both "Nanny-ing" and "Career development"? (Note: I have a bit more than a year of being an admin assistant and a few months of private tutoring)
   
2. I've left the house years ago and felt guilty for doing so (since they've paid for all my expenses: food, tuitions, and such), so can I still ask them to exclude me from their plans since I want to go for my dreams as well?
   
3. I've been looking for a wfh job cause I thought it would make it easier for me to watch over the kids while I work but I have had no luck for the past few months now. And my older sister told me to find a job near her office so we could save up for a motor and she wouldn't have any trouble commuting anymore. Should I still look for a wfh or should I go onsite?
   

I've asked my friends for advice. Some says I should give my family a bit more time to stabilise themselves. Some says to just leave and focus on myself cause they have their own family while I have nothing. Some says to find a balance between both cause I couldn't possibly cut ties with my fam and I couldn't not prioritise my future. It's my bday soon but I don't have money to treat my family or friends or myself... This is the reason why I'm feeling anxious cause I feel like I'm just wasting my time.

Hello. As states in the title I'd like to find someone I can either befriend or at the very least be able to reliably play games with. I don't wish to study social media engineering and ways to create an ideal post that will garner plenty of attention, so I will simply write what I think a decent post that would make me interested would look like.
I am 31 year old male from Poland that lives with depression (it's nor exactly "struggling" at this point, more of an acceptance without ability to fight it), NEET, programming and fantasy nerd with aspergers syndrome, unable to make friends with anyone at all. No longer wish to work on myself, I just want to talk and play games with someone long term. Talking and playing games with people are the only joys I have in life and they are very much hard to come by.
I've figured that showing some things you are proud of could help, here are some of my gaming accomplishments (yes, I know these will be cringy to most people, but these are things I'm genuinely proud of. I hope at least some people would share these sentiments).

• Guild Wars (Full completion and titles except for PvP)
• Star Craft 2 (All non PvP and nongrindy achievements. High diamond league in multiplayer)
• Hollow Knight (Full 112% completion, Panethon 5 All Bindings, reasonably high randomizer skill)
• Slay The Spire (All achievements )
• Heroes of the Storm (All characters acquired, top 200 GM at the peak)
• DotA 2 (pretty high rank, but I don't remember the peak anymore)
• Overcooked 2 (all platinum stars in vanilla campaign)
• Splendor (top 25 player on BGA at one point)
• Cathedral (All achievements)
• Dungeons of Dredmore (highest difficulty win with permadeath)
• VVVVVV (all achievements except Gravitron and deathless)
• Borderlands 2 (Full game, max level and most of the "raid bosses")
• Super meatboy (100% completion, though without deathless achievements)
• Variety of flash games (where servers might no long be active unfortunately)

Again, I do not wish to flex these but simply wish to show that I am proud of something, achievement hunting and honing gaming skill is something I feel most at home with. I wish to share that joy with someone and hopefully make friends. I have ~1000 games available so perhaps there is something we can play together?
Aside from games I have interest revolving around manga, electro music, puzzles, logic, controversial/taboo topics and opinions.
If it peaks your interest at all, please send me a short message describing yourself (1-2 sentences, including asl if you don't mind, I don't want to read a paragraph to start off) and mention a game or a few games you think we might want to play together.
I promise to respond to everyone and provide more info if needed.

Hello. As states in the title I'd like to find someone I can either befriend or at the very least be able to reliably play games with. I don't wish to study social media engineering and ways to create an ideal post that will garner plenty of attention, so I will simply write what I think a decent post that would make me interested would look like.
I am 31 year old male from Poland that lives with depression (it's nor exactly "struggling" at this point, more of an acceptance without ability to fight it), NEET, programming and fantasy nerd with aspergers syndrome, unable to make friends with anyone at all. No longer wish to work on myself, I just want to talk and play games with someone long term. Talking and playing games with people are the only joys I have in life and they are very much hard to come by.
I've figured that showing some things you are proud of could help, here are some of my gaming accomplishments (yes, I know these will be cringy to most people, but these are things I'm genuinely proud of. I hope at least some people would share these sentiments).

• Guild Wars (Full completion and titles except for PvP)
• Star Craft 2 (All non PvP and nongrindy achievements. High diamond league in multiplayer)
• Hollow Knight (Full 112% completion, Panethon 5 All Bindings, reasonably high randomizer skill)
• Slay The Spire (All achievements )
• Heroes of the Storm (All characters acquired, top 200 GM at the peak)
• DotA 2 (pretty high rank, but I don't remember the peak anymore)
• Overcooked 2 (all platinum stars in vanilla campaign)
• Splendor (top 25 player on BGA at one point)
• Cathedral (All achievements)
• Dungeons of Dredmore (highest difficulty win with permadeath)
• VVVVVV (all achievements except Gravitron and deathless)
• Borderlands 2 (Full game, max level and most of the "raid bosses")
• Super meatboy (100% completion, though without deathless achievements)
• Variety of flash games (where servers might no long be active unfortunately)

Again, I do not wish to flex these but simply wish to show that I am proud of something, achievement hunting and honing gaming skill is something I feel most at home with. I wish to share that joy with someone and hopefully make friends. I have ~1000 games available so perhaps there is something we can play together?
Aside from games I have interest revolving around manga, electro music, puzzles, logic, controversial/taboo topics and opinions.
If it peaks your interest at all, please send me a short message describing yourself (1-2 sentences, including asl if you don't mind, I don't want to read a paragraph to start off) and mention a game or a few games you think we might want to play together.
I promise to respond to everyone and provide more info if needed.

Hello. As states in the title I'd like to find someone I can either befriend or at the very least be able to reliably play games with. I don't wish to study social media engineering and ways to create an ideal post that will garner plenty of attention, so I will simply write what I think a decent post that would make me interested would look like.
I am 31 year old male from Poland that lives with depression (it's nor exactly "struggling" at this point, more of an acceptance without ability to fight it), NEET, programming and fantasy nerd with aspergers syndrome, unable to make friends with anyone at all. No longer wish to work on myself, I just want to talk and play games with someone long term. Talking and playing games with people are the only joys I have in life and they are very much hard to come by.
I've figured that showing some things you are proud of could help, here are some of my gaming accomplishments (yes, I know these will be cringy to most people, but these are things I'm genuinely proud of. I hope at least some people would share these sentiments).

• Guild Wars (Full completion and titles except for PvP)
• Star Craft 2 (All non PvP and nongrindy achievements. High diamond league in multiplayer)
• Hollow Knight (Full 112% completion, Panethon 5 All Bindings, reasonably high randomizer skill)
• Slay The Spire (All achievements )
• Heroes of the Storm (All characters acquired, top 200 GM at the peak)
• DotA 2 (pretty high rank, but I don't remember the peak anymore)
• Overcooked 2 (all platinum stars in vanilla campaign)
• Splendor (top 25 player on BGA at one point)
• Cathedral (All achievements)
• Dungeons of Dredmore (highest difficulty win with permadeath)
• VVVVVV (all achievements except Gravitron and deathless)
• Borderlands 2 (Full game, max level and most of the "raid bosses")
• Super meatboy (100% completion, though without deathless achievements)
• Variety of flash games (where servers might no long be active unfortunately)

Again, I do not wish to flex these but simply wish to show that I am proud of something, achievement hunting and honing gaming skill is something I feel most at home with. I wish to share that joy with someone and hopefully make friends. I have ~1000 games available so perhaps there is something we can play together?
Aside from games I have interest revolving around manga, electro music, puzzles, logic, controversial/taboo topics and opinions.
If it peaks your interest at all, please send me a short message describing yourself (1-2 sentences, including asl if you don't mind, I don't want to read a paragraph to start off) and mention a game or a few games you think we might want to play together.
I promise to respond to everyone and provide more info if needed.

Returning to a routine or community after isolating during hard times can be challenging but also transformative. Here are some steps to reintegrate effectively, rebuild relationships, and leverage the lessons learned from your period of isolation:

1. Self-Reflection and Understanding

• Acknowledge Growth: Recognize and appreciate the personal growth and resilience developed during your hard times. Understand the strengths you've gained and how they've prepared you for reintegration.
• Identify Lessons: Reflect on the lessons learned during isolation. These might include coping mechanisms, new skills, or deeper self-awareness.

2. Gradual Reconnection

• Start Slowly: Reconnect with close friends or family members first. Share your experiences in a way that feels comfortable, allowing them to understand your journey.
• Join Group Activities: Participate in group activities or communities where you feel a sense of belonging. This can be a hobby group, a support group, or a professional network.

3. Open Communication

• Share Your Experience: Communicate openly about your hard times and isolation if you feel comfortable. Sharing your story can foster understanding and support.
• Set Boundaries: Be clear about your boundaries and needs. It's important to protect your well-being as you reintegrate.

4. Rebuilding Relationships

• Show Appreciation: Express gratitude to those who supported you or reached out during your hard times. This strengthens bonds and shows you value their support.
• Be Patient: Understand that rebuilding relationships takes time. Be patient with yourself and others as you navigate this process.

5. Creating a Balanced Routine

• Incorporate Self-Care: Integrate self-care practices into your daily routine to maintain the resilience you've built. This can include mindfulness, exercise, or hobbies.
• Set Realistic Goals: Set achievable goals for reintegration, whether personal, social, or professional. Celebrate small milestones to stay motivated.

6. Seeking Professional Support

• Therapy or Counseling: Consider seeking professional support to navigate the emotional complexities of reintegration. A therapist or counselor can provide guidance and strategies tailored to your needs.
• Support Groups: Join support groups where you can share experiences with others who have gone through similar situations. This can provide a sense of community and understanding.

7. Leveraging Your Experience

• Share Your Story: Use your experience to inspire and support others. Whether through writing, speaking, or volunteering, sharing your journey can be empowering for both you and your audience.
• Advocacy: Advocate for mental health awareness or other causes related to your experience. This can give a sense of purpose and contribute positively to your community.

Practical Example: Reintegration Process

Scenario: Returning to Work After a Period of Isolation

1. Self-Reflection: Recognize that you’ve developed new coping skills and resilience.
2. Gradual Reconnection: Start by reconnecting with close colleagues and friends at work.
3. Open Communication: Share with your manager and close colleagues about your time away and any accommodations you might need.
4. Rebuilding Relationships: Show appreciation for colleagues who supported you, and be patient with yourself and others as you adjust.
5. Balanced Routine: Incorporate breaks and self-care into your workday to manage stress.
6. Professional Support: Consider discussing your return with a therapist to navigate any challenges.
7. Leveraging Experience: Use your experience to mentor others facing similar challenges, fostering a supportive workplace environment.

Reintegrating after a period of isolation can be a deeply rewarding process, allowing you to bring newfound strength, insight, and resilience to your life and relationships. By taking a thoughtful and gradual approach, you can rebuild connections and create a balanced, fulfilling routine.

Hello. As states in the title I'd like to find someone I can either befriend or at the very least be able to reliably play games with. I don't wish to study social media engineering and ways to create an ideal post that will garner plenty of attention, so I will simply write what I think a decent post that would make me interested would look like.
I am 31 year old male from Poland that lives with depression (it's nor exactly "struggling" at this point, more of an acceptance without ability to fight it), NEET, programming and fantasy nerd with aspergers syndrome, unable to make friends with anyone at all. No longer wish to work on myself, I just want to talk and play games with someone long term. Talking and playing games with people are the only joys I have in life and they are very much hard to come by.
I've figured that showing some things you are proud of could help, here are some of my gaming accomplishments (yes, I know these will be cringy to most people, but these are things I'm genuinely proud of. I hope at least some people would share these sentiments).

• Guild Wars (Full completion and titles except for PvP)
• Star Craft 2 (All non PvP and nongrindy achievements. High diamond league in multiplayer)
• Hollow Knight (Full 112% completion, Panethon 5 All Bindings, reasonably high randomizer skill)
• Slay The Spire (All achievements )
• Heroes of the Storm (All characters acquired, top 200 GM at the peak)
• DotA 2 (pretty high rank, but I don't remember the peak anymore)
• Overcooked 2 (all platinum stars in vanilla campaign)
• Splendor (top 25 player on BGA at one point)
• Cathedral (All achievements)
• Dungeons of Dredmore (highest difficulty win with permadeath)
• VVVVVV (all achievements except Gravitron and deathless)
• Borderlands 2 (Full game, max level and most of the "raid bosses")
• Super meatboy (100% completion, though without deathless achievements)
• Variety of flash games (where servers might no long be active unfortunately)

Again, I do not wish to flex these but simply wish to show that I am proud of something, achievement hunting and honing gaming skill is something I feel most at home with. I wish to share that joy with someone and hopefully make friends. I have ~1000 games available so perhaps there is something we can play together?
Aside from games I have interest revolving around manga, electro music, puzzles, logic, controversial/taboo topics and opinions.
If it peaks your interest at all, please send me a short message describing yourself (1-2 sentences, including asl if you don't mind, I don't want to read a paragraph to start off) and mention a game or a few games you think we might want to play together.
I promise to respond to everyone and provide more info if needed.

Hello! I’m a parent of an intelligent, articulate, strong willed, playful 2.5 year old. This will be his first experience with non-familial care outside of my home. We socialize a lot with other kids through music classes, gymnastics classes, and play dates with park friends.
We toured our school of choice in December and at that time one of the things I spoke with the director about was which class to place him in. He has a very late August Birthday, and will turn 3 just before the school start date on September 4th. I told her I was leaning towards the 3’s class because at that time he was preferring to socialize with older kids, and although I’m hesitant to say this to you all because I know every parent thinks their child is a genius/angel, he is VERY bright, and very articulate. She said I should really consider that 2.5 class as it has a smaller ratio (1:8, as opposed to 1:10). I was still hesitant, but reassured me that it would be very simple to move him to the 3’s if I changed my mind. With that reassurance, we were there bright and early on application day (first come, first served) and accepted into the 2.5 class.
Well, unfortunately in the 6 months since then I’ve watched my son blossom more and more and it’s become apparent to me that I should have stuck to my gut and gone with the 3’s. I reached out to her and told her I’d like to make the switch, and she told me that was fine, but I will move to the BOTTOM of the waitlist for 3’s while I maintain my 2.5 spot. I didn’t want to argue over the phone so I simply accepted this information placidly, but it seems really unfair to me.
I have to drop off a check to her tomorrow, and I would really like to ask her to be moved to the top of the waitlist. I didn’t dispute what she said at all during our phone call because I really want to be tactful and have a good relationship, but I feel this goes against her reassurances during our tour that a switch would be easy/simple. I also want to avoid my son switching classes during the year as much as possible because transition is no fun, so this is really important to me and I’m worried a lot about it.
How would you approach this conversation? Or do you believe this request is wrong or inappropriate? Thank you so much!

Hello! I’m a parent of an intelligent, articulate, strong willed, playful 2.5 year old. This will be his first experience with non-familial care outside of my home. We socialize a lot with other kids through music classes, gymnastics classes, and play dates with park friends.
We toured our school of choice in December and at that time one of the things I spoke with the director about was which class to place him in. He has a very late August Birthday, and will turn 3 just before the school start date on September 4th. I told her I was leaning towards the 3’s class because at that time he was preferring to socialize with older kids, and although I’m hesitant to say this to you all because I know every parent thinks their child is a genius/angel, he is VERY bright, and very articulate. She said I should really consider that 2.5 class as it has a smaller ratio (1:8, as opposed to 1:10). I was still hesitant, but reassured me that it would be very simple to move him to the 3’s if I changed my mind. With that reassurance, we were there bright and early on application day (first come, first served) and accepted into the 2.5 class.
Well, unfortunately in the 6 months since then I’ve watched my son blossom more and more and it’s become apparent to me that I should have stuck to my gut and gone with the 3’s. I reached out to her and told her I’d like to make the switch, and she told me that was fine, but I will move to the BOTTOM of the waitlist for 3’s while I maintain my 2.5 spot. I didn’t want to argue over the phone so I simply accepted this information placidly, but it seems really unfair to me.
I have to drop off a check to her tomorrow, and I would really like to ask her to be moved to the top of the waitlist. I didn’t dispute what she said at all during our phone call because I really want to be tactful and have a good relationship, but I feel this goes against her reassurances during our tour that a switch would be easy/simple. I also want to avoid my son switching classes during the year as much as possible because transition is no fun, so this is really important to me and I’m worried a lot about it.
How would you approach this conversation? Or do you think it’s wrong or inappropriate to make this request? Thank you!

Hi, I'm a PhD researcher at the University of Sussex, and I am conducting a study aimed at understanding the experiences of international university students in the UK.
This 10-minute survey explores various aspects of the international student experience, including challenges encountered, formation of social groups, perceived social support, resilience, and overall mental health.
As a thank you, five respondents who complete and pass the attention checks will win £50, and three will receive £25.
Survey Link: https://universityofsussex.eu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0BToJ8UBqsmFCWq
Your participation is crucial in helping us gather a diverse range of perspectives. Additionally, sharing the survey link within your network would greatly contribute to the success of this research.
It is important to note that participating in this study poses no foreseeable risks beyond the normal challenges of daily life. Upon completion, participants will be provided with information about relevant mental health and language support services, should they require them.
Thank you for your time!

(Posting this here as the university's subreddit seems dead but if you guys know a better place to ask around for this, lmk!!)
Hey all, I'm going to study for my masters at Uppsala University this Fall. For the housing application with UUHO, I was wondering if anyone could share some of their experiences on housing they got through this organization?
Especially curious about which accommodation you'd say is the most social / active. I like living with people a lot and I'd like to interact with my housemates :). Just wanna know what would be good to put as a preference
Thanks! And anyone else who is going for their masters there this Fall, what will yall study and are you managing to arrange housing?