Honor | Society

It sounds vain, but it’s signaling. Adding “John Doe, National Honor Society ” under your name in emails to professors or internship coordinators subconsciously raises their perception of your diligence. The Verdict: Is it worth it? Join if: You need a structured community, you want access to exclusive scholarships, or you struggle with networking and need a pre-vetted group of peers.

Whether it’s a study abroad grant, a research stipend, or a local leadership award—use your membership badge to apply. The worst they can say is no. Honor Society

A recruiter will not see the gold cord and offer you the corner office. They will see the GPA that got you into the society. They will see the leadership position you held as the society’s treasurer. They will ask about the volunteer project you organized through the society’s community outreach program. It sounds vain, but it’s signaling

I know it’s awkward. Go anyway. Collect three business cards or Instagram handles from people in different majors. You need cross-discipline friends. Join if: You need a structured community, you

But if you’ve received an invitation to join an Honor Society—or if you’re wondering if that application fee is worth it—you probably suspect there is more to it than just looking good in a cap and gown.

You are purely paying for a line item on your résumé and have no intention of attending events or applying for funds. In that case, the $80 fee buys you nothing but a piece of paper.