Should STEM graduate and undergraduate students join professional societies?

June 22, 2021She Sciences

The short answer is yes!

At the surface, it seems like joining professional societies and attending research conferences is reserved for faculty and published researchers. However, professional societies have a lot to offer to undergraduate students and graduate students! Professional societies offer a number of benefits to student all at a wayyyy cheaper price tag!

Here are some reasons STEM students should join professional societies!

On-campus chapters
Discounts on office supplies, insurance, travel
Webinars and continuing education
Conferences
Networking opportunities
Mentorship
Scholarships and grants
Publication access
Job boards
Outreach opportunities

With on-campus society chapters, you can connect with other students interested in your field and get involved on campus with chapter events. Many of these chapters will have officer positions, so they are a great way to get leadership experience as well!

The biggest advantage of joining professional societies early in your academic or STEM career is the networking. By being involved early with a society, you can get to know people in your field, which down the road could lead to recommendations, internship, and jobs! Societies also want to recruit students, so they offer incentives like scholarships, discounts and reduced membership.

What are some STEM professional societies that I can join as a student?

There are a number of societies that students can join! Most societies are designated by topic or by group of people. This allows for special and specific opportunities for women and people of color and disciplines.