Of course," Kayla says. "Despite my teasing, I think this is important."
Wait, that was what she considers teasing?
Kayla continues, "When I'm stressed and overworked, I tend to prioritize the urgent and ignore the important. With luck, you and I will be here for years. Having a friend outside our department will help us maintain equilibrium during that time."
While that's a lot of words to say "having friends is good," you agree with her. Having other allies in the college will help further your career. "I'm glad you think this is important."
"Of course," she says. "So what about your research is time-consuming?"