With the arrival of fall, we've welcomed our newest group of interns and residents and are getting ready to meet our newest classes of medical and pharmacy students. And as always, they are an impressive group; we are fortunate to have the very brightest students and graduate trainees selecting UC San Diego as a launching pad for their professional careers.

The annual infusion of talented, enthusiastic young people who have made the decision to pursue the professions of medicine, pharmacy and biomedical research is one of the benefits of working in an academic enterprise. Our students and post-doctoral trainees challenge us intellectually, and play a variety of roles in advancing our missions, from community volunteerism to their contributions in our laboratories and clinics.

Serving as their mentors, teachers and advisers is a privilege, and keeps us at top form. Please make sure and welcome our new young colleagues to UC San Diego when you have an opportunity.