Robert was born in New York City and grew up in Springfield, IL. After graduating from the Culver Military Academy (Culver, IN) he went to Yale, majored in history, and graduated in 1964. He studied medicine in Ireland at the Royal College of Surgeons from 1965-1971. From there, he interned in New Haven and completed his psychiatric residency in Hartford. He worked in private practice, nursing homes, correctional and substance abuse facilities, and student mental health at UConn. He married Judith Bowden and has one son, two stepdaughters, and four world-class grandchildren. He’s written three books published to date: a short story collection, a novel, and a memoir. He retired from psychiatry but continues to write. His most recent book, "Making God Laugh: A Memoir of Psychiatry, Dublin, and the Electric Chair," was published this year. Learn more about Robert and his writing.
Robert recently took the time to share his favorite Yale spaces and how his time on campus helped shape the person he is today.
What is your most enduring memory of your time at Yale?
Can't pick out one, but among the contenders: the teaching (e.g., Vincent Scully, John Morton Blum, Michael Coe). Lifelong friends. A secret society. Breakfast at the Yankee Doodle, pizza at Sally's. Late-night conversations going everywhere.
What is the biggest lesson you learned during your time at Yale and how does that shape who you are today?
Do it well or don't bother.
How did your time at Yale shape your identity?
It made me open to people, ideas, & books I couldn't have imagined beforehand. It led me to strive for excellence (not that I always achieved it).
What does belonging mean to you and how did you find a sense of belonging at Yale and after?
A pride in being part of something a lot bigger & better than I am.
How have you stayed engaged with the Yale community since graduating?
A few close friends. Reunions. Occasional plays, concerts, and football games.
What advice do you wish you heard during your time at Yale?
Don't be too prideful about your successes. Don't be too distraught about your failures (this too shall pass).
What were your favorite spaces at Yale or in New Haven? Why?
High on the list is the Yale Art Gallery (finding out that art can afford considerable solace when you need it). Walking around the campus in the spring & fall.
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And be sure to check out all the Q&As in the series by visiting our Getting to Know You page.
