This is exactly why career tests are so valuable—they provide data-driven insights to help you navigate your options with confidence. Instead of relying on guesswork, you can take a personalized, research-backed assessment that reveals your strengths, interests, and best-fit career paths. And the best part? As an NSCS member, you get exclusive free access to the Universum Career Test 2025!
Why Career Tests Matter
A career test isn’t just a fun personality quiz—it’s a powerful tool that helps you make informed decisions about your future. Here’s how:
Identify Your Strengths: Learn what makes you unique and how your skills translate into different career paths. Explore Your Best-Fit Career Options: The test connects you with industries and job roles that align with your interests and work preferences. Gain Insider Insights: See which employers are hiring students like you and what they look for in candidates. Make Confident Career Moves: Whether you’re picking a major, applying for internships, or preparing for graduation, career insights help you take strategic steps toward success.
An Exclusive Perk for NSCS Members
As a dedicated NSCS member, you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. Through our partnership with Universum, you have free access to their career-defining assessment—a tool used by students worldwide to refine their career paths.
This exclusive opportunity is only available until June 9th, so don’t miss your chance to get ahead and set yourself up for success.
How to Take the Test
Taking the test is quick and easy:
1⃣ Click the link below.
2⃣ Answer a few questions about your interests, skills, and career goals.
3⃣ Receive a personalized career profile outlining your best-fit industries, roles, and employers.
Take the Universum Career Test Now
Your future career starts with clarity. Take the test today and start exploring the opportunities that match your unique strengths! Stay tuned for more career resources and exclusive NSCS member perks to help you along the way.
]]>Gratitude isn’t just a nice feeling—it’s a practice that supports your mental health, enhances your focus, and boosts your resilience. Here’s how a Gratitude Jar can make a real difference as you navigate the final stretch of the semester.
How Gratitude Helps You End the Semester Strong
- Boosts Your Motivation
When you take a moment to acknowledge small victories—like completing a challenging assignment or having a meaningful conversation—it reinforces your sense of progress. This helps you stay motivated to tackle the next challenge. - Reduces Stress
Gratitude shifts your mindset, encouraging you to focus on what’s going well rather than what’s overwhelming you. This mental reset can lower stress levels and improve your ability to concentrate. - Fosters Resilience
Reflecting on positive moments, even during tough times, reminds you of your capacity to handle challenges. It’s a practice that builds emotional strength and keeps you moving forward.
How to Create Your Gratitude Jar
- Choose Your Jar
Use any container—a mason jar, a decorated box, or even a coffee mug. If you like, personalize it with stickers, quotes, or designs that inspire you. - Start Writing Gratitude Notes
Cut up small pieces of paper or grab sticky notes. Each day, write down one thing you’re grateful for. It could be academic progress, a kind gesture, or even a small joy like your favorite coffee.
Examples:
- “Grateful for my professor’s extra office hours before the big exam.”
- “Thankful for my roommate helping me proofread my paper.”
- “Appreciate how the sunshine made my walk to class better today.”
- Use It as a Study Break
When finals stress starts to build, pause to add something to your jar. This practice serves as a mindfulness exercise, giving you a chance to refocus and find balance. - Make It a Shared Practice
Invite your friends or study group to create their own Gratitude Jars, or even share gratitude notes with each other. This can build a sense of connection and mutual support. - Reflect and Recharge
At the end of the semester, take time to read through your Gratitude Jar. Reliving these moments can provide a sense of accomplishment and remind you of all the positives that carried you through.
Why It Works
A Gratitude Jar isn’t just a feel-good activity—it’s a powerful tool for self-care. By making gratitude part of your daily routine, you’re training your brain to focus on the positives, which can improve your mental health, increase your energy, and help you stay motivated through stressful periods.
As finals wrap up and the semester closes, you’ll have a tangible reminder of the good that happened, even during busy and challenging times. This simple practice helps you finish strong—not just academically, but emotionally and mentally as well.
Try starting your Gratitude Jar today and see how it transforms your mindset as you power through the final weeks of the semester.
]]>What is Semester at Sea?
Semester at Sea is a unique study abroad program that offers students the opportunity to travel the world while earning academic credits. Students live and learn aboard a ship that takes them to 10 to 12 different countries over the course of a semester. With a curriculum designed to promote cross-cultural understanding and global awareness, Semester at Sea provides an unparalleled educational experience that combines academic coursework with hands-on learning in different international destinations.
The NSCS Semester at Sea Scholarship makes this incredible opportunity possible for students, allowing them to explore new cultures, broaden their academic horizons, and gain valuable life experiences.
Meet Our Scholarship Recipients:
Haley Middleton
The University of Georgia
Award: $10,000
“Since looking into Semester at Sea, I’ve researched countless ways to help fund my study abroad, but the chances of going were slim. Receiving the NSCS Semester at Sea Spring Award provides the financial relief I was searching for, and I couldn’t be more grateful. Being able to attend this study abroad seemed too good to be true, but now with this award, it’s within my reach. This scholarship makes it possible for me to experience diverse cultures, new destinations, and different perspectives that will enrich my education and further my personal and professional growth. I’m excited to learn from the SAS faculty and meet new friends from around the world, making memories that will last a lifetime. I wouldn’t have been able to go on Semester at Sea without this, so thank you to the National Society of Collegiate Scholars for making my dream to study abroad a reality.”
Riley Talmage
University of Twin Cities
Award: $10,000
“I truly cannot express how much this scholarship means to me. The generosity of NSCS will allow my Semester at Sea experience to be less stressful and more adventurous; it is because of them that I will be able to say yes to experiences and opportunities I may not have otherwise. My dream of not just seeing, but actually experiencing the world, will be that much more attainable, and I will be forever grateful to NSCS for believing in both me and my boundless aspirations as I embark on this journey of a lifetime.”
Sara Christ
The University of Texas at Austin
Award: $5,000
“Receiving the NSCS Semester at Sea Spring Scholarship is both a tremendous honor and a meaningful opportunity that will greatly impact my academic and personal journey. This scholarship means more than just financial support; it offers the opportunity to engage in a global classroom where learning reaches far beyond traditional textbooks. It allows me to fully immerse myself in a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience diverse cultures firsthand, engage in global learning, and develop a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of our world, growing both academically and personally in ways that wouldn’t be possible in a traditional setting. As an advertising student, the ability to see the world through new eyes is invaluable. Semester at Sea will allow me to explore how cultural nuances influence communication and creativity, helping me become a more thoughtful and well-rounded professional. I’m immensely grateful to NSCS for recognizing my potential and helping me take part in a program that will undoubtedly shape my future. This scholarship has empowered me to embrace this journey wholeheartedly, and I’m excited to learn from the world in ways I’ve never imagined.”
Emily Cates
Auburn University
Award: $5,000
“Semester at Sea will be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to travel the world, form meaningful connections with people I would never have met otherwise, and I know it will shape me in ways that a traditional classroom experience cannot. Receiving this scholarship means so much to me because it recognizes and eases some of the cost of this program. I am excited about my upcoming journey and grateful to receive an NSCS Scholarship.”
Christy Knabe
The University of Texas at Austin
Award: $5,000
“Receiving the Semester at Sea scholarship from NSCS has been an amazing gift in my life. This scholarship not only helps cover the costs of my final semester of college, but also makes my dream of going on Semester at Sea a reality. This journey will let me explore new cultures and gain experiences that will shape my future. I’m really thankful for this support, and I can’t wait for the adventures and learning that lie ahead. Thank you, NSCS, for making this opportunity possible!”
Olivia Tosto
Global Chapter (College of DuPage)
Award: $5,000
“Receiving the NSCS Semester at Sea Scholarship has truly been a life-changing experience. It has given me the incredible opportunity to pursue my academic ambitions while traveling the world and expanding my horizons. Words cannot express the depth of my gratitude to the National Society of Collegiate Scholars for granting me this once-in-a-lifetime chance. I am deeply honored to have been selected for this scholarship, which represents my commitment to believing in myself and continuously pushing beyond my comfort zone. This experience will shape both my personal growth and future career.”
NSCS is proud to support these exceptional students as they embark on their global academic journey with Semester at Sea. Their stories reflect the transformative power of the NSCS Semester at Sea Scholarship, which enables students to gain firsthand exposure to new cultures and global issues while continuing their academic pursuits. Congratulations to all our scholarship recipients!
]]>1. The Pomodoro Technique: Boost Your Focus
One of the most effective ways to maintain concentration and avoid burnout is by using the Pomodoro Technique. This time management method breaks your study sessions into 25-minute intervals, separated by short 5-minute breaks. After four sessions, take a longer break of 15-30 minutes to recharge. This structure works because it creates a sense of urgency and makes long study sessions more manageable.
How to use it:
- Set a timer for 25 minutes and focus on one task (studying, reading, etc.).
- When the timer goes off, take a 5-minute break to stretch, walk around, or grab a drink.
- Repeat this cycle four times, then take a longer break to rest.
Why it works:
The Pomodoro Technique improves focus and helps combat mental fatigue, making it easier to sustain longer study sessions without burning out.
2. Active Recall: Supercharge Your Memory
Instead of passively re-reading notes or textbooks, active recall forces you to retrieve information from memory. By actively testing yourself on the material, you strengthen neural connections, which makes it easier to recall information during exams. This technique works particularly well when combined with tools like flashcards or self-quizzes.
How to use it:
- After reading a chapter or attending a lecture, put your notes aside and try to write down everything you remember.
- Use apps like Anki or Quizlet to create flashcards and quiz yourself regularly.
- Incorporate practice problems and past exams into your study sessions.
Why it works:
Active recall encourages deeper engagement with the material, turning passive review into an active learning process.
3. Spaced Repetition: Retain More, Forget Less
Cramming for exams may help you in the short term, but it’s not the best way to retain information long-term. Spaced repetition involves reviewing the material at gradually increasing intervals, which strengthens your memory over time. By spacing out your review sessions, you reinforce learning just before you’re about to forget the information.
How to use it:
- After studying a new topic, review it the next day, then again after three days, and once more after a week.
- Use apps like Anki or Brainscape that automatically schedule review sessions for you based on how well you know the material.
Why it works:
Spaced repetition strengthens your long-term memory, making it more likely that you’ll retain information when exams come around.
4. The Feynman Technique: Teach to Learn
Named after the Nobel Prize-winning physicist Richard Feynman, the Feynman Technique is a method for deepening your understanding of difficult topics by teaching them. The process involves breaking down complex ideas into simple terms that even a beginner could understand. If you can’t explain it clearly, you don’t understand it well enough, so it forces you to identify and fill in gaps in your knowledge.
How to use it:
- Choose a concept or topic you’re struggling with.
- Write down or verbally explain the concept as if you’re teaching someone with no background in the subject.
- Identify any areas where you get stuck or feel unclear, then go back and review those sections.
Why it works:
Teaching or explaining material forces you to engage with it more deeply, ensuring you grasp every aspect of the topic.
5. The Cornell Note-Taking System: Organize Your Notes for Success
The Cornell Note-Taking System is a highly effective way to organize lecture notes in a way that improves comprehension and makes review easier. This method divides your notebook page into three sections: a narrow left column for key points, a wide right column for notes, and a summary section at the bottom.
How to use it:
- During class, take notes in the wide right-hand column.
- After class, write down key questions, main ideas, or important concepts in the left-hand column.
- Summarize the entire page at the bottom of the sheet to consolidate your learning.
Why it works:
The Cornell system encourages active engagement with the material, helping you identify the most important information while reviewing notes efficiently later on.
By incorporating these specific, research-backed study habits into your routine, you’ll not only save time but also retain more information. Techniques like the Pomodoro Method, active recall, and spaced repetition are designed to help you learn smarter, not harder, setting you up for success this semester. Start implementing these habits today to boost your academic performance and take control of your study routine.
]]>Why Setting Academic Goals Matters
Academic goals provide a clear roadmap for the school year, helping you stay focused and motivated. Without specific goals, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the demands of college life, from studying for exams to balancing extracurricular activities. By setting goals, you can prioritize your time, stay organized, and ultimately achieve better academic outcomes.
What Are SMART Goals?
When setting academic goals, it’s important to make them SMART: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Timebound. Here’s how you can apply this framework to your own goals:
Specific: Clearly define what you want to accomplish. Instead of setting a vague goal like “do well in classes,” try something more specific like “earn an A in my calculus course.”
Measurable: Make sure your goal is quantifiable. This allows you to track your progress and know when you’ve achieved it. For example, “read one chapter of my textbook every day” is measurable.
Achievable: Set goals that are realistic given your current academic standing and resources. It’s great to aim high, but make sure your goals are within reach to avoid frustration.
Relevant: Your goals should align with your broader academic and career aspirations. If you’re majoring in biology, for example, set goals that will help you excel in your major-specific courses.
Timebound: Establish a deadline for your goals. Whether it’s a semester-long goal or something you want to achieve by the end of the week, having a timeframe helps keep you on track.
The Power of Accountability in Achieving Your Goals
One of the most effective ways to stay on track with your academic goals is by holding yourself accountable. This involves regularly checking your progress and making adjustments as needed. However, accountability becomes even more powerful when you involve others.
Partnering with fellow students or joining a study group can significantly enhance your commitment to achieving your goals. For members of the National Society of Collegiate Scholars (NSCS), this could mean teaming up with other NSCS members who share similar academic aspirations. By working together, you can provide mutual support, share resources, and motivate each other to stay focused.
Staying on Track with Your Academic Goals
Here are some tips to help you stick to your plan and leverage accountability:
1. Break Down Larger Goals: If you have a big goal, such as writing a research paper, break it down into smaller, manageable tasks. This makes the process less daunting and allows you to make steady progress.
2. Use a Planner or Digital Calendar: Tracking deadlines, assignments, and study sessions in a planner or digital calendar can help you stay organized and avoid last-minute stress.
3. Partner with NSCS Members or Study Groups: Collaborating with others who are equally driven can create a strong support system. Whether it’s regular check-ins or study sessions, partnering with others can keep you accountable and motivated.
4. Review and Adjust Your Goals: Periodically review your goals to see how you’re progressing. If something isn’t working, don’t be afraid to adjust your goals or your approach.
5. Celebrate Small Wins: Recognize and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small. This positive reinforcement can keep you motivated throughout the semester.
Setting SMART academic goals at the start of the school year can pave the way for a successful and fulfilling semester. By staying organized, breaking down tasks, and holding yourself accountable—whether through self-discipline or by partnering with NSCS members—you’ll be well on your way to making this school year your best yet.
Not a member of NSCS? Find out why NSCS has become the nation’s fastest growing honors society. Apply now for membership
]]>The Connection Between Mental Health and Academic Performance
Your mental health directly influences various aspects of your academic life. Here’s how:
- Concentration and Focus: Mental health issues like anxiety and depression can make it difficult to concentrate during lectures, study sessions, and exams.
- Motivation: Feeling anxious or depressed can lead to a lack of motivation, making it hard to start or complete assignments and study effectively.
- Memory and Retention: High stress levels can negatively affect your ability to remember information, impacting your performance in exams and assignments.
- Physical Symptoms: Mental health issues often come with physical symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, and sleep disturbances, which can further hinder academic performance.
Mental Health Among College Students
Mental health issues are prevalent among young adults. Sometimes referred to as the “anxious generation,” today’s generation of college students and young professionals are actually much more likely to talk about mental health than their parents or grandparents. This generation is closer than ever to breaking the stigma around mental illness in a time when only 44 percent of adults—and less than 20 percent of children and adolescents—with diagnosable mental health problems receive the treatment they need.
According to NSCS partner Active Minds, 39 percent of college students experience a significant mental health issue. Over 67 percent of young adults first tell a friend they are feeling suicidal before telling anyone else. Additionally, 50 percent of students rate their mental health as below average or poor.
The Impact of Learning Differences
Learning differences, such as Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), also significantly affect academic performance. Students with ADHD may experience difficulties with:
- Attention: Sustaining focus during lectures and while studying can be challenging.
- Organization: Keeping track of assignments, deadlines, and materials requires additional effort.
- Impulsivity: Making hasty decisions or acting without considering the consequences can affect learning and interactions.
Strategies for Supporting Mental Health and Learning Differences
- Seek Professional Help: If you’re struggling with mental health issues or learning differences, don’t hesitate to reach out to a counselor or therapist. Many colleges offer free or low-cost mental health services and support for learning differences.
- Build a Support Network: Surround yourself with supportive friends, family, and mentors. Having people to talk to can make a big difference in how you handle stress and anxiety.
- Practice SelfCare: Prioritize activities that promote your well-being. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and sufficient sleep are fundamental to good mental health.
- Utilize Campus Resources: Most colleges offer resources to support students with learning differences, such as academic coaching, tutoring services, and accommodations like extended test times.
- Time Management and Organization: Use planners or digital tools to organize your tasks and ensure you have time for both academics and relaxation. Break tasks into smaller, manageable steps and set realistic goals.
- Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Practices such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga can help manage stress and improve your focus.
Leveraging Campus Resources
Most colleges offer a variety of resources to support student mental health and learning differences. These may include:
- Counseling Services: Professional counselors can provide support and strategies for managing mental health issues.
- Disability Services: Offices dedicated to supporting students with learning differences can provide accommodations and resources.
- Wellness Programs: Many campuses offer workshops and programs focused on stress management, mindfulness, and overall wellness.
- Support Groups: Joining a support group can provide a sense of community and shared understanding.
The Importance of Early Intervention
Recognizing the signs of mental health issues and learning differences early can prevent them from escalating. Common signs include persistent sadness, excessive worry, changes in sleep or eating patterns, difficulty concentrating, and organizational challenges. If you notice these signs in yourself or a friend, seek help promptly.
Tips for Balancing Mental Health and Academics
- Set Realistic Goals: Break down large tasks into manageable steps and set achievable goals to stay motivated.
- Take Breaks: Regular breaks during study sessions can prevent burnout and improve productivity.
- Stay Connected: Keep in touch with friends and family, even if it’s just through a quick text or call.
- Engage in Hobbies: Pursuing interests outside of academics can provide a muchneeded mental break and boost your mood.
Maintaining good mental health is essential for academic success in college. By understanding the impact of mental health and learning differences on your studies and implementing strategies to support your well-being, you can achieve your academic goals while enjoying a balanced and fulfilling college experience. Remember, it’s okay to seek help and prioritize your mental health—you deserve to thrive both mentally and academically.
Share this blog with your college community to raise awareness about the importance of mental health and learning differences in achieving academic success!
]]>This partnership aims to provide deserving students with scholarships for this extraordinary program. Through this collaboration, NSCS supports its members in achieving their academic and personal goals by offering them the chance to participate in a life-changing global educational experience. We are immensely proud of their achievements and look forward to their incredible journey ahead.
What is Semester at Sea?
Semester at Sea is a unique study abroad program that offers students the opportunity to travel the world while earning academic credits. Students live and study on a ship, visiting multiple countries during the voyage. The program combines classroom learning with hands-on experiences in different cultures and environments, making it a transformative educational adventure. Participants engage in coursework, field classes, and service-learning projects, gaining global perspectives and skills that enhance their academic and personal growth.
This year’s recipients are:
- Carleena Deforges, University of South Florida
- Valeria Garcia, University of Tampa
- Nicole Heiter, University of Massachusetts at Amherst
- Nuru Kibare, Kennesaw State University
- Rowan Kile, Michigan State University
- Eiley Smith, Utah Valley University
These six students have demonstrated exceptional dedication and enthusiasm, and we are proud to support them as they embark on this incredible journey. Here are their inspiring testimonials:
Carleena Deforges, University of South Florida
Scholarship Amount: $10,000
“When I first heard about Semester at Sea, I remember thinking it sounded like a Suite Life on Deck pipedream, and I hesitated to take part in the program due to the very daunting program costs. But two years ago, to my parents’ dismay, I said, ‘Why not? I can find the money,’ and have been working towards funding the voyage ever since. I cannot truly express my gratitude or the sense of relief I feel from having received $10,000. I had a dream of funding my travels with only scholarships, and the Semester at Sea Fall Scholarship has brought me so close to my goal. Thank you to the entire National Society of Collegiate Scholars team who made this possible for me!”
Valeria Garcia, University of Tampa
Scholarship Amount: $5,000
“Thank you sincerely to the National Society of Collegiate Scholars for awarding me this scholarship that will allow me to study abroad on a trip of a lifetime around the world with Semester at Sea. I am excited to immerse myself in 10 different cultures and learn more about who I am and where I fit in this amazing world. I am honored that you believe in me and are investing in my future. This act of generosity will help me become a wellrounded individual by allowing me to put into practice what I learned in school. During my trip, I plan to give back by volunteering and making a positive social impact in every country I visit.”
Nicole Heiter, University of Massachusetts at Amherst
Scholarship Amount: $5,000
“I am so excited and proud to receive this scholarship as it allows me to travel to new places and experience the world in a whole new way. I am eager to embark on this journey of making new memories, lifetime connections, and obtaining a meaningful education. I am so thankful for the National Society of Collegiate Scholars for providing me with the opportunity to immerse myself in new cultures and learn more about our beautiful planet.”
Nuru Kibare, Kennesaw State University
Scholarship Amount: $5,000
“I am beyond grateful for the National Society of Collegiate Scholars for supporting me, believing in me, and providing me with the opportunity to take on this once-in-a-lifetime experience with Semester at Sea. This scholarship has opened doors to invaluable educational and cultural experiences that I otherwise would not be able to access. With this scholarship, I get to embark on a unique educational journey, traveling to multiple countries and experiencing diverse cultures firsthand. This immersive experience will enable me to be adaptable, enhance my global awareness, diversify my knowledge, and foster resilience. This scholarship not only alleviates financial burdens but also validates my hard work and dedication to becoming a global citizen. I am incredibly honored to be a recipient of this Scholarship, and I want to express my gratitude and appreciation towards the National Society of Collegiate Scholars for making my dreams a reality.”
Rowan Kile, Michigan State University
Scholarship Amount: $10,000
“I am truly honored to accept this scholarship for Semester at Sea. It is going to help open up a world of opportunities to explore global cultures and create lifelong memories with the friends I meet.”
Eiley Smith, Utah Valley University
Scholarship Amount: $5,000
“I am so grateful that the National Society of Collegiate Scholars has provided this scholarship. It has allowed sailing on the Semester at Sea fall 2024 voyage financially possible for me. This scholarship has not only allowed me to reach my financial goals, but also achieve my dreams of seeing the world. I know that Semester at Sea will be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and I am so thankful for this scholarship and the help it has given me.”
These testimonials highlight the transformative power of the Semester at Sea program and the significant impact of the NSCS scholarships. We are incredibly proud of these scholars and excited to see the amazing experiences and growth they will gain through this unique educational voyage. Here’s to new horizons and unforgettable adventures!
]]>
Look Over Scholarship Opportunities
With the cost of college rising, scholarship opportunities are one of the key reasons for high-achieving students to join an honor society. Some honor societies offer exclusive scholarships for their members. Most also provide lists of scholarships, and some even help students apply.
Spend some time helping your student review scholarship opportunities through each of the honor societies they are considering. You likely have more awareness as to what a certain scholarship will cover than the average student, so you can offer real-life feedback on the amounts being offered. Also make sure your student looks into the qualification requirements for each of the scholarships. For example, NSCS requires that students maintain a 3.4 GPA to apply for exclusive scholarships, so you want to ensure your student can meet these GPA requirements before they join.
Talk About Fees
Most reputable honor societies do charge a fee for membership, but that fee can vary widely between societies. Look over the fee structure with your student, and discuss the concept of return on investment. Help them think through the benefits they will get from joining the society and whether or not those benefits are worth the fee.
Also keep an eye out for any honor societies that charge monthly dues but offer little in return. Such societies tend not to be very reputable and don’t offer a great ROI. Steer your students away from them and towards programs that have a lower, one-time or annual membership fee.
Discuss The Skills They Need to Develop
Joining an honor society is a way for students to gain skills they don’t learn in the classroom. So, worth with your student to identify the skills they most need to work on. Then, look for an honor society that will give them opportunities to develop those skills.
Say, for example, your student wants to work on their leadership and management skills. They should then aim to join an honor society that offers leadership opportunities. An organization that has students as chapter leaders or council is often a good choice. You could also look for a society that does a lot of volunteer work in the community, as this gives students opportunities to work with larger groups.
Talk With Alumni
See if you can get in touch with some alumni who were members of the honor societies your student is most interested with. Set up and facilitate meetings with these people. You and your student can ask them questions about their experiences in the honor society and how those experiences set them up for success. They can give your student more specific insights into the ways in which honor society membership can help them in their career.
Finding the right honor society can take some time and consideration. If you have a student who is currently searching, use the tips above to help guide them in their search. Contact NSCS if you are interested in learning more about our honor society. We encourage prospective members to talk to current members and alumni before they join.
]]>Are you interested in qualifying for an NSCS scholarship? Here’s a closer look at what it takes.
Join NSCS
As we mentioned, our exclusive scholarships are only available to NSCS members. So that means the first step in qualifying for these scholarships is to become a member. If you have not been nominated for membership, you can visit our website and nominate yourself. In order to qualify, you must have a 3.4 GPA or higher. You must also have already completed between 12 and 60 credit hours of coursework.
Maintain Your GPA
NSCS members are expected to maintain a 3.4 GPA or higher in order to remain in good standing. You will only be eligible to apply for scholarships if your GPA meets this requirement. Here are some tips to help you maintain a high GPA as a college student and NSCS member:
- Join study groups. Often, studying with others will give you a new perspective on the material and help you better understand it.
- Go to office hours. Professors are usually more than willing to answer questions and give extra help during office hours.
- Study everyday. Instead of waiting until the last minute to study for tests or complete assignments, spend a little time studying every day.
Demonstrate Leadership
Leadership is one of the Three Pillars of NSCS. It’s also one of the metrics we use to choose our scholarship winners. NSCS members have many opportunities to demonstrate leadership and develop their leadership skills. Some of our members join chapter leadership. For example, you could serve as Chapter President, which would allow you to gain experience organizing and interacting with large groups of students.
There are also leadership opportunities available through the National Leadership Council. This is an advisory board of NSCS members who report to the Board of Directors to offer insight and feedback. National Leadership Council members serve one-year terms and gain valuable leadership experience that really stands out on scholarship applications.
Demonstrate Service
The third pillar of NSCS is service. We love to see scholarship applicants who have spent time serving their local communities. Not only does service help those in the community, but it helps members develop a stronger sense of empathy while enhancing their organizational skills.
Each NSCS chapter has its own ties to local volunteer organizations. In the past, chapters have coordinated with the YMCA and local food banks. If you know of other service opportunities in your area, you could demonstrate your dedication to service by gathering other students to volunteer alongside you.
Keep in mind that NSCS offers more than $500,000 in scholarships every year. Many of our chapters offer additional scholarships, too. Examples include the NSCS Non-Traditional Scholar Award, the 3M Women in STEM Award, and the Scholarship for Women in Business Sponsored by GEICO. If you’re interested in applying for any of these scholarships, focus on the three pillars are recommended above. NSCS is excited to continue opening doors for dedicated students like you.
]]>Only Members Can Apply
We call these our “exclusive scholarships” for a reason. They are exclusively available to NSCS members. This means that competition for these scholarships is limited. Yes, you will be competing against other qualified NSCS members, but that’s a much smaller pool of applicants than you see with a typical scholarship. So, your chances of winning are higher.
You Do Have to Qualify
We only offer our exclusive scholarships to members, but not all members are eligible to apply. In order to qualify, a member has to have a GPA of 3.4 or higher. Most of our members are high-achieving students who have no trouble meeting this requirement. However, keeping this requirement in place does help ensure that our scholarships are awarded on a merit basis and to the most qualified members. In addition to GPA, we also consider a student’s overall commitment to academics, leadership, and service when selecting scholarship winners.
Any Major Can Apply
When students are searching for scholarships, they sometimes become frustrated when they come across numerous scholarships, but only for students in other majors. This won’t happen when you apply to exclusive scholarships through NSCS. Our exclusive scholarships are available for students in any field or major. We routinely have students in STEM majors, the humanities, business, and social science apply for and win our awards.
Here’s another piece of good news: if you win one of our scholarships, you can use it to pursue any major or discipline. We understand that sometimes changing majors is the right choice for a student, and we won’t force you to make those decisions based on a scholarship you’ve won.
We Partner With Several Other Programs
We partner with a couple of other programs and organizations to offer truly unique, exclusive scholarship programs for our members. One example is our Semester at Sea program. Through this opportunity, students can spend a semester traveling and learning about different cultures. Another example is our International Scholar Laureate Program, through which students can study abroad and have some of their costs covered. NSCS opportunities like this can open doors to a brighter future.
We Offer More Than Any Other Honor Society
Other honor societies do offer exclusive scholarships. However, NSCS offers more scholarship money than any other honor society of its kind. We offer a total of $500,000 a year, and it all goes to NSCS members. Some of our chapters offer additional scholarshipsfor their members, too. We encourage students to apply for all scholarships for which they are qualified. A scholarship or two can make college a lot more affordable and reduce the amount of student loans you need to take out.
Now that you know a little more about our scholarship opportunities, we hope you feel more encouraged to join NSCS. We are proud to offer these exclusive scholarships to our very deserving members. Past winners have benefited greatly from programs including Semester at Sea, and we know you will, too. NSCS opens doors for members like you.
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