And what is wrong with that? I presume most of the people on this message-board are somewhat similarly inclined... and there's nothing wrong with "polishing your degree", either...
Indeed, I am guilty of failing to be specific. What I meant was, I have several friends who are 25/26 whose only hobby is to play computer games. In themselves, games are great. But if you do nothing else, and never socialise with people except for when you play games, something is wrong. I used to play a lot. When I was in my early teens, I could rack up quite a few hours a day, not to mention the weekends. But I don't think spending all your time in front of a game is a healthy thing whern you pass a certain age. there is a whole world out there.
I'd agree with lukipela here... I found the same thing when I first moved, but just try and get over it and be glad that some of them stay in touch. I use spam emails liberally, and while the stony-cold silences may indicate otherwise, I think most of them are listening. New friends are also good.
And as I said, just be glad for the time you spend with them. It doesn't make it any less real that you wont know them in 10+ years.
Natural products isolation/structure elucidation, mostly.
And when that is done, where do you intend to look for work? I n the US, or elsewhere? Do you have a significant other who influences where you're going? Do you feel happy with life? enquiring minds wish to know.
