I think many of the problems with graduate school are very real (however, I would say that almost everything on that linked article isn't really a problem unique to grad school, though I guess it's more a joke article?) Anyways I also agree that it is not great to only focus on the bad So here are some of my favourite things about being in academia/grad school:
1. Freedom to explore interesting science---as @maelia8 said, your colleagues all over campus are experts and they are all at your disposal. Similarly, the ability to contribute meaningfully to your colleagues' work.
2. Interactions with students (e.g. opportunities to teach, mentor, train)
3. Ability to have really cool experiences that I never thought I would happen to me. Some highlights: travel to Switzerland for a science meeting, interviewed by LA Times, operate one of the largest telescopes in the world, and listen to a talk by Stephen Hawking.
4. Ability to influence policy at your school and make a difference for you, your colleagues and future students. I feel like grad students have much more say in school/department policies than a typical employee at a corporation.
5. Flexibility on both working hours and vacation days
6. Feeling like you are part of a team of people that is exploring something new and expanding humankind's knowledge!
ericaerica reacted to TakeruK in Why Grad School is Fucking Awesome