Foxy firstly congrats and well done. Secondly why do you have to be servile to their attitudes anyway? I know good companions while you are studying make life easier but you cant let a difference in rumours influence what is effectively a great career break.
Go for it girl and dont let anyone walk all over you just because their ego is more inflated than yours. It petty and personal as well as unjustified. Hit the books with your reasoned choice and in twelve months it will all be over and you will be on your way to the best job earth on your own merits.