I decided to share my thoughts over this topic, after I received a notification email today, about my paper being accepted for publication in a conference. I am sure many would agree with me on the following two words as the most pleasing to the eyes and ears of grad students.
1. Congratulations!
Every time I open a notification email-- before I read anything else-- I scan the magical word 'Congratulations'. If I am lucky enough to find it-- before even reading the rest of the email, I reach the state of Euphoria, shoot for my phone and flood my friends and relatives with the news. Only after an hour or so when I am satisfied with the compliments and applause from everyone, I relax and read the whole email :-).
2. Free!
This word has much more importance and power, keeping in mind the low salary of PhD students. I and my fellow grad students are usually aware of any event or talk where free food is being served. We consider it our obligation to attend events with free food and stuff, even if they are not remotely useful to us.
