The Sudden Change:

Without any prior warning, UC Berkeley decided to stop processing new alumni email account requests starting on September 6, 2023. As part of the “bConnected” initiative, Berkeley students have relied on their university-provided email accounts not only for academic purposes but as a foundational tool for building their professional futures. The abrupt nature of this decision has left many in the community startled and unprepared.

 
Why This Matters More Than Ever:

• Unexpected Disruptions: Many students and recent graduates had no foresight into this change, leading to potential disruptions in professional, academic, and personal communications.
  
  
• Professional Prestige: An '@berkeley.edu' address carries significant weight. Suddenly losing this affiliation can severely impact networking, job-seeking, and ongoing professional engagements.
  
  
• Alma Mater Bond: This email isn’t just a communication tool—it’s our lasting connection to UC Berkeley. The sudden disconnection feels like an abrupt severance from our beloved institution.
  
  Our request:
  
  Provide a Purchase Option for Future Graduates: Allow graduates to retain their '@berkeley.edu' email addresses through a subscription or one-time fee, ensuring continuity and offsetting the new pricing challenges.
  
  Take Immediate Action:
  The unexpected nature of this change amplifies the urgency of this request. If you too were caught off-guard by this sudden shift and believe in the importance of retaining the '@berkeley.edu' affiliation, please sign this petition. Let’s ensure our collective voice reaches the decision-makers.