Jamie - you should let me know the next time you'll be in town. It's always fun to meet a 3FCer in person! I'm telling you, coming to UCSC was the best decision I've ever made. No wonder so many people come to UCSC and never leave again...
Jeanette, I so understand. Hang in there hon, you're just starting out, and it does take time. You'll see changes soon!
Again, to everyone, thank you so much for giving me the perspective I'd lost.