<p>Some people are insufferable. Smile and nod and try to tune out the negativity. It’s not a good trait in people. I don’t know what you can do to cheer up your dad but good for you for thinking about this from the perspective of cheering him up. Perhaps have him read the alumni magazines from jmu. The alumni magazines are usually posted to the website or e-mail the college and ask them to send you a recent one. Every alumni magazine generally has stories or anecdotes about what the graduates are doing. Perhaps seeing that graduates from jmu do THRIVE will make him feel better. Best of luck in college and yes, again good for you…do keep studying!</p>