During our time in high school, friendships form our delicate social structure, educating us about the lifelong values of trust and integrity. Our friends support us during our times of need, see beyond our internal struggles, and more often than not, tell us the precise truth.

The importance of our friends cannot be understated – strong relationships are definite indicators of improved well being and health. The positive relationship between strong relationships and good health have been proven through a multitude of studies, which have demonstrated that people who have satisfying relationships with family, friends, and their community “are happier, have fewer health problems, and live longer,”^[1] according to Harvard Medical School. Our neurotransmitters are designed to react positively to caring social behaviors and as for our hearts, we certainly appreciate the close bonds that we form with our classmates and peers.

We are remembered for the compassion that we share through our friendships and the connections that we make. What is more, our individual identities are shaped by the people that we interact with and by the many perspectives that we are exposed to through our friendships.

In this edition of the Armijo Signal, we will explore the close relationships that we cherish the most in our lives— our invaluable friendships. Furthermore, with this month’s theme, we implore you to meet a new person, to share a new connection, and share the joy of friendship with someone new.

^[1]https://www.health.harvard.edu/special-health-reports/living-better-living-longer-the-secrets-of-healthy-aging