2025 Holiday Mixer

Published December 8, 2025

The 2025 Family and Friends Holiday Mixer was held on December 5 in Room 312 of the Engineering and Computer Science Building. More than 40 people attended, including 12 current METRIC 2 scholars, 6 faculty members, 3 program alumni, 3 campus liaisons, and about 20 family members and friends.

The event began with informal mingling and table doodling, followed by a buffet dinner. The program director then gave a presentation highlighting the year's activities and announcing upcoming research and conference opportunities. Selected current scholars shared the challenges they faced this semester and how they overcame them, as well as a meaningful accomplishment and their aspirations moving forward. A program alumnus also spoke about how AI is shaping their industry.

The evening concluded with two holiday-themed games—Holiday Charades and a Holiday Song Word Chain—before everyone gathered for a group photo.

METRIC's Family and Friends Mixer serve many important purposes:

  • Strengthen community connections
  • Celebrate accomplishments
  • Encourage mentorship and inspiration
  • Provide program updates and opportunities
  • Create a fun and relaxing space
     

Event Photos

mingling and table doodling
Mingling over food and doodling on the table.
mingling and table doodling
Mingling over food and doodling on the table.
former program participant sharing wisdom
Former program participant sharing his words of wisdom.
mentor sharing a presentation
Mentor presenting a professional development opportunity.
mentor and mentee sharing a hug
CECS mentor and mentee giving hugs and showing their special bond.
charades
Acting out a charade clue.
charades
Playing the holiday charade game.
playing holiday games
Playing the holiday song word chain game.
strategizing during a holiday game
Thinking hard for the holiday song word chain game.
event participant group
Group photo!