Is Joining an Honor Society Worth It?

Clocktower+Building+University+of+Otago+Dunedin+New+Zealand

Ulrich Lange Dunedin New Zealand

Clocktower Building University of Otago Dunedin New Zealand

Savannah Plume, Writer

First, what is an Honor Society? The definition for an Honor Society is an organization for high school or college students of high academic achievements. But what do they do? From what it looks and sounds like, nothing. Many only join for something to put on a college résumé or job application. But does this truly show effort put into your school education?

Many are able to get in without any complications as noted by International New York Times in an article from the Choice. Around a third of students are able to do so. This shows that not much is needed to enter in the first place. All you need is a GPA above a 3.0 and a background with no trouble and you’re in. Many also have a requirement of a lower GPA. Recently, the requirements have become easier to reach, so does this really show joining an Honor Society means you’re a good student?

Now, something that really rubs me the wrong way is the service hours required to stay in. There are always people that join who could be the worse people on this planet but will be seen as nice and honorable citizens because they have done service hours that they were forced to do. To me, this is something that would be done if you were actually a nice person, not because you were forced.

Lastly, many people are forced into Honor Societies by parents. I understand that parents wish only the best out of their children, but if it is against their child’s wishes, is it worth it?

“My parents forced me to join,” both Casey Kula and Chloe Darden, students that have been in the National Junior Honor Society and Tri-M, stated in their interview. “They thought it was best for my résumé,” Casey then continues.

Chloe also stated, “If you know for a fact that the honor society is organized and is run by good leaders, then yes, join.”