Competition and Jealousy

[mechengr2000]

"Ivy League" students have an enormous chip on their shoulder because of the rampant grade inflation at their schools. You will learn much more from a school like the one you are at now. Don't let other's people's bad behaviors affect you. Their situation should be of any concern to you, even if you were friends in the past. Time for them to grow up. Focus on what you are doing and make the best of your life. You only get one shot at this.

[isobel_a]

"And when they enter the stress of grad school and realise that they perhaps aren't as amazing as they view themselves to be, their toxicity becomes amplified as they lash out. Ultimately, you should be looking out for your own well-being in your learning environment. Avoid the toxic person as much as you can (can you request a different office?), don't give that person any fuel for their rage (e.g., never discuss your grades), and when there is an incident, make sure you've documented what happened and get in touch with someone who can make a difference (e.g. a dean or advisor)."

This kind of stuff happens in "the real world" all the time, too. Competition and bad blood exists in the workplace, and the stakes there can be even higher.

Anyway, good advice.