Yesterday, we looked at began looking at student organizations. Today, in part one of our two-part series on nationally recognized student organizations, we will spend some time looking at the benefits of belonging to one or more national student organizations whose basis for admittance is grade point average, also known as GPA.

There are many of these organizations out there, and most seek out students in their early years of college for membership. For most, your cumulative GPA has to be above a 3.3 on a 4.0 scale. Really, this isn’t that hard to attain, and should you be contacted it is beneficial for you to join. Why? Because membership in academic-based nationally recognized student organizations has many advantaged both while you’re in college and beyond. Some of these benefits include:

• Scholarship Opportunities
• Special Career Opportunities
• Access to lower-interest credit cards and loans through the organization
• A great line-item on your resume or graduate school application
• Networking opportunities with other organization members at your college or university

Some of these organizations ask for a one-time only membership fee. While this may seem like a waste of money, try to find the funds to join. Remember, membership in a nationally recognized organization gives you an advantage upon graduation and is well worth the price.

Is your GPA above a 3.3 and you have not been solicited for membership? If so, check out these popular organizations’ websites: Golden Key National Honor Society, The National Society of Collegiate Scholars, or ask your college adviser for suggestions.