New Arts & Sciences research has identified a novel learning and memory brain network that processes incoming information based on whether it’s something we’ve experienced previously or is deemed to be new. This helps us recognize, for instance, whether the face before us is that of a familiar friend or a stranger.

First-year students at the School of Medicine participated last week in the traditional White Coat Ceremony — a rite of passage in which future doctors are welcomed to the medical school and the medical profession. The class also recited an oath promising honesty and integrity.

First-year medical student Anna Arnaud writes about what it means to receive a white coat. Incoming School of Medicine students received their coats at a ceremony Aug. 14 to initiate the transition from students of science to practitioners of medicine.

Staff member Karen Dodson found a way to link her passions for writing and for Patagonia. She had an idea for a novel, and through her course work in Olin Business School’s Executive MBA program, she used the novel to launch a travel business. Now, the manager of professional development at the School of Medicine has a first excursion set for November.

In the Aug. 14 issue of the Record, there was a typographical error in our headline for a story on the generous commitment by Maxine Clark and Bob Fox for programs and facilities at the Brown School. We regret and apologize for the error.