This story appears in The Minerals, Metals & Materials Society's student newsletter Professional Preface, vol. 6, no. 2, p. 1.

Welcome Back!

I cannot imagine a more exciting time to be a student in materials engineering. The world around us is being transformed at an unprecedented pace, and materials are at the heart of this transformation. From electronic materials that drive the information-technology revolution, to biological materials that are enhancing the quality of life for many, to the dazzling range of ceramics, composites, and metal alloys that are shaping our civilization, we are surrounded by the innovations in this exciting field. Welcome back to all of you who are returning to another year in materials engineering programs, and a very warm welcome to all of you who are new to the field. You have chosen well. You begin this academic year as the current century and millennium draws to a close, and will witness the birth of a new one, with all its promise and challenge.

As Director of Student Affairs for TMS, I invite all of you to discover the benefits of being a student member of TMS and to contribute your many talents to enhance the vibrancy of our professional community. You are our future, and TMS places a very high priority on its student activities and services. TMS student chapters offer you an opportunity to meet other students and develop your leadership skills while learning about the profession. The TMS Scholarships and Awards Program recognizes excellence among you and is an incentive to students to strive to fulfill their intellectual potential. TMS meetings are a wonderful opportunity to learn of the latest developments in the field and network with professional members from industry, other universities, and government. Perhaps above all, they are an occasion for building friendships that last a lifetime, a time to step outside one's busy schedule and enjoy the company of one another, and an opportunity to make a difference. I look forward to meeting you personally at such a gathering.

I.V. Samarasekera
Director, Student Affairs