In this episode of Square Pegs, we delve into two important topics: first, we explore the strengths and challenges related to obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) as a form of neurodiversity and second, we explore the potential connections between environmental stressors in graduate school, mental health, and eating disorders. Sarah, a Teaching Assistant Professor at Stevens Institute of Technology, shares her personal experiences with OCD as well as her journey in managing an eating disorder during her time as a graduate student.

The discussion highlights how societal pressures, particularly those present in academia, can contribute to harmful behaviors and detrimental mindset. Sarah also emphasizes the urgent need for a shift in focus towards mental and physical well-being, effective mentorship, and proactive outreach within academia. We discuss the systemic flaws that hinder the balance of research and teaching in academia, underscoring an urgent need for change.

⁠National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders

https://anad.org/

⁠⁠FEDUP collective - Fighting Eating Disorders in Underrepresented Populations⁠

https://fedupcollective.org/

⁠Association for Size Diversity and Health⁠⁠

https://fedupcollective.org/

International OCD Foundation⁠

https://fedupcollective.org/

⁠Sarah Goodman's Blog⁠

https://fedupcollective.org/

Square Pegs is a series of intimate conversations about navigating life and learning within the neurodiverse community, hosted by Dr. Arash Zaghi, Professor at the University of Connecticut School of Engineering. In each episode, we talk to neurodiverse students and experts in the field of neurodiversity.

Send feedback about Square Pegs to ⁠⁠⁠hello@squarepegspodcast.com⁠⁠⁠ or find us at ⁠⁠⁠squarepegspodcast.com.

00:00 Mental gymnastics: the compulsion of intrusive thoughts

03:45 The transformative potential of undergraduate research opportunities

08:00 Locked in the supply closet: a detailed look at the thought processes of OCD

09:49 Planning the storage supply closet in teaching labs

14:20 Approaching things differently: coping with OCD

19:06 Being an open door for students: the importance of empathy

21:29 OCD strengths: the value of over-preparation

25:18 Common experiences of OCD

27:51 The perfect grad student

36:20 Faculty perspectives on changing the culture of academia

39:12 Checking in with students and offering support

42:59 Fostering creativity and personal connections in education

45:33 Content warning: This portion contains discussion of eating disorders

49:15 Lack of control in grad school

55:43 Food as a coping mechanism for anxiety

59:03 Hustle culture and its impact on mental health

1:04:53 The importance of mentorship and teaching in academia

1:07:45 The need for change and support in education