3 Reasons to Consider Joining a High School Honor Society
There are plenty of options to choose from regarding activities outside of school. College admissions staff love to see extracurricular activities like band, athletics, community service, and honors societies on your resume. But these endeavors aren’t just another bullet point to add to your resume; they’re powerful experiences that can enrich you.
Earning good grades in high school is a great accomplishment you should be proud of. Strong students should be honored for their hard work and academic achievements. This is exactly why high school honor societies like NSHSS were created: to recognize and honor high-achieving students with rewarding opportunities.
So, if you're wondering, "Should I join an honor society?" or even "Why would I want to be in a national honor society?" you may not be familiar with all the benefits. You will have three unique opportunities when joining an organization like the National Society of High School Scholars.
What Is a High School Honor Society?
A high school honor society is an organization that recognizes students who have demonstrated excellence in academics, leadership, and character. These societies aim to celebrate scholastic achievement and help students develop valuable skills and experiences that support their academic and professional goals. Being part of a reputable honor society is a mark of distinction and dedication.
Is Joining an Honor Society Worth It?
Many students (and parents) ask, “Is it worth it to join NSHSS?” The answer depends on how much you’re willing to invest in the experience. Membership in an honor society can open doors to scholarships, leadership roles, and networking events—but it’s up to you to take advantage of them. The benefits can absolutely be worth it, especially if you're actively involved and use the resources provided to boost your college and career plans.
Is it worth it to join NSHSS?
The short answer: absolutely—if you're ready to take advantage of what it offers. From exclusive scholarships and leadership opportunities to meaningful networking connections and global programs, NSHSS is more than just a resume booster. It's a platform to help you grow academically, personally, and professionally. But just like any opportunity, the value comes from your level of involvement. The more you engage, the more rewarding your membership will be.
What are the benefits of joining an honor society?
1. Networking Opportunities
Honor societies allow you to meet and engage with other like-minded, high-achieving students like yourself. Many clubs offer you the chance to meet new people, but an honor society helps you to meet other students with similar goals in academic achievement. It may motivate you to stay focused and work harder throughout high school, college, and beyond. Hopefully, these will be your peers at a top university someday!
Honor societies can help you form long, lasting friendships with people you are similar to, but they also provide you with networking opportunities that can help you get a head start on your career. You’ll get the chance to network with local leaders and potential future employers. The friends you make in an honor society are the leaders of tomorrow, and sometimes, getting a job is more about who you know than your academic achievement. You never know who you’ll meet at a member event that may end up as the CEO of a major company.
Honor societies also provide commonality with future employers or admissions interviewers who were members of the same community. With NSHSS members worldwide, it’s likely that you’ll run into a fellow member at some point in your career and can connect about your experience.
2. Leadership Skills
Take full advantage of any honor society you join by getting involved in their leadership opportunities. Most honor societies provide leadership training and have a student leadership group like the NSHSS ambassador program.
College admissions aren’t looking for someone with as many honor societies listed as possible; they’re looking for someone who has been actively involved in one or two organizations to gain leadership skills. Employers also want to hire well-rounded students who have pursued advanced opportunities within and excelled in their extracurricular activities.
3. Scholarships & Study Abroad
Most credible honor societies offer members several rewarding benefits, like having access to exclusive study abroad and scholarship opportunities. Honor societies like the NSHSS aim to help you realize tremendous success throughout your academic career. In doing so, they can help you pay for college and explore unique learning opportunities abroad.
NSHSS members can apply for member-exclusive high school, college, and graduate scholarships in various areas, from STEM to visual arts. These scholarships can help you pay for international study abroad, summer programs, and tuition and books.
Learn more about the scholarship opportunities available with NSHSS or explore other member benefits.
Why Colleges Value Honor Society Membership
College admissions teams appreciate students who go above and beyond academics. Being a member of an honor society reflects dedication, leadership, and involvement in a community of achievers. When admissions officers see NSHSS on your application, they know you are part of a national organization that values excellence. This sets you apart in a competitive pool of applicants.
How to Choose the Right Honor Society for You
When selecting an honor society, consider what each organization offers. Some may focus primarily on academics, while others—like NSHSS—provide a wider range of opportunities, including scholarships, events, internships, and global networking. Look for a society with values and benefits that align with your goals.
How to Make the Most of Your Membership
Like any extracurricular activity, reaping the rewards depends on the time and energy you invest. Joining a high school honor society like NSHSS is no different, as the experience is ultimately what you make of it.
Proactively applying for scholarships, networking with peers, and attending events—the value of these opportunities lies in your involvement and actions. For students who are actively engaged in their endeavors, there is much to gain from joining a high school honor society.
NSHSS vs Other Honor Societies: What Makes It Unique?
While many honor societies offer academic recognition, NSHSS goes beyond that by supporting members through every stage of their educational journey. NSHSS offers lifetime membership, exclusive scholarships, international events, and leadership programs that extend into college and beyond. Its global network and commitment to student success make it a valuable community for ambitious students.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you're a high-achieving student and wondering, “Is it worth it to join NSHSS?”—the answer is a confident yes. NSHSS can help you gain access to exclusive resources, scholarships, and a community of driven scholars.
Join NSHSS today and start unlocking your potential.
Already received an invitation? Accept it here and explore the benefits waiting for you.
Honor societies benefit you for your entire future, not just on a college application. Receiving an invitation is an honor, so make your membership meaningful once you join and pursue as many opportunities as you can.
Once you find an honor society that is right for you and your academic needs, make the most out of your membership by choosing to be an active member and role model for the society. You won’t regret the many opportunities afforded to you with membership in an honor society like NSHSS.