If your career or relationships will colleagues depend on an event, you should make an effort to attend. [substeps] For example, look at events like a boss's birthday party or a mixer with members of your graduate program.
[header] How to decide whether to go out or stay in [title] Think about what is at stake. [step] In some social events, it's a bad idea to skip out. An event for work or school, for example, could help you make connections.