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A D V A N C E D M A T E R I A L S & P R O C E S S E S | O C T O B E R 2 0 2 1 3 8 FROMA STUDENT’S PERSPECTIVE “ Can you hear me? Oh, I was double muted.” “All I see is your desktop wallpaper. Nice tiger, by the way.” “Would everyone, please, mute their mics?” This last year has been a wild ride for everyone, first converting to virtual and, with extreme caution, slowly re- verting to normalcy. I realized a great dynamic will be apparent with the next round of students when consider- ing what is “normal.” In my experience, only my graduate schooling was virtual, thus providing a “normal” undergrad- uate experience. However, the up-and-coming graduates or green professionals will have a split or mostly virtual ex- perience, depending on the local jurisdiction. What is con- sidered “normal” behavior, customs, and routines will vary greatly from student to student. Acknowledging this dynam- ic should refocus attention to the evaluation process criteria. Doing so may help achieve greater diversity when consider- ing who is an exemplary student, an inspiring researcher, and an uplifting work-family member. As an example, the virtual setting has allowed the option of virtual internships for students who ordinarily may not have considered apply- ing due to financial, family, or health reasons. Virtual intern- ships or other virtual activities have broadened the type of applicants to include the full spectrum between traditional and nontraditional students. Noting the benefits is especial- ly important when considering how inclusion is a fervent and critical topic to the representation of every organization and association. The intention behind my message is to give credit to those working diligently and with great decorum toward making student outreach opportunities more accessible. I had my fair share of conference experiences during my un- dergrad years, but as time goes on, the option to travel has become more complicated. I am a returning student, above the typical age range, a parent, and a spouse to someone whose occupation has been affected by the pandemic. During these trying times, I knowmy professional prog- ress would have become stagnant if not for the connections made within SMST, the broader shape memory community, and their associations. Within SMST, I will have the privilege of acting as student board member for two consecutive years. During this experience, including the 2019 confer- ence and the CASMART challenges, I have met prominent professionals who continue to pave a path for the next generation in shape memory. More recently, I was offered a virtual internship with NASA to dissect mechanisms influ- encing shape memory properties. The achievements reflect not only my own efforts but, also, to those continuing to ex- tend their hands, my mentors. Here is a question for your consideration: How are you paving a path or building a bridge for the next generation? Whether you are a teacher looking to assist your students, or you’re considering graduate school, or you are looking for recruitment opportunities, consider sharing the follow- ing resources and events hosted by ASM International and the SMST organization. Through the SMST Community on ASM Connect, we can share, boast, and highlight informa- tion and resources, or casually share coffee break banter. Students can join the platform—among many other bene- fits—if they are a member. Visit www.asminternational.org/ students. Another opportunity for student involvement is the CASMART 5th Design Challenge. For the first time, the challenge is available for two consecutive years to offer stu- dents a chance to present their work at the SMST May 2022 conference. Visit the event site at asminternational.org/ web/smst-2022. The upcoming year is exceptionally excit- ing with the celebration of 60 exciting years of Nitinol. Use these tools to stay connected, make connections, and help the community grow! I hope you findmotivation in your research and in those whose careers you will elevate. Please enjoy this issue of the SMST NewsWire. Faith Gantz SMST 2020-2022 Student Board Member GUEST EDITORIAL Gantz 2