Fiona M. DoyleAs the Fall semester winds down, I’m sure that I’m not the only one looking forward to a few weeks to recharge. It’s an excellent time to step back a bit from academic obligations and clear one’s head, connect with family and friends, share convivial meals, and be active. I’ll be heading to the Sierra for some skiing.

End-of-semesters and holidays can also be stressful. If you feel a need for stress management or personal support, you are not alone! Reach out to those around you — and don’t hesitate to access University Health Services, whether for online resources or for person-to-person contact through individual counseling or peer groups.

As you ponder opportunities for the year ahead, please consider a rewarding professional development activity next semester — one that offers significant cash prizes and media attention to boot! The University of California 2016 Grad Slam Competition will take place on April 22, officiated by UC President Napolitano, government officials, media makers, and other luminaries. In January, all graduate students will be invited to submit three-minute videos describing their research, as the first round in a two-phase judging process that will select which of you will represent Berkeley in this UC-wide competition. While awaiting more details to be announced next month, you can glean the essentials by reading about last year’s event.

Meanwhile, I wish you a satisfying conclusion to the semester and a restorative, safe winter break!

Fiat Lux!

Fiona M. Doyle
Dean of the Graduate Division
Donald H. McLaughlin Professor of Mineral Engineering