As students, we are constantly bombarded with invitations to join various honor societies. But with so many options, it can be difficult to determine which ones are truly worth the investment. One society that has been gaining attention lately is Pi Sigma Alpha, the National Political Science Honor Society. But is it worth the financial cost of joining?
First, let’s take a look at the cost of membership. According to their website, the one-time membership fee is $50. In addition, members are required to maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher in political science courses and have completed at least 10 credit hours in political science. The benefits of joining include access to scholarships, networking opportunities, and the chance to participate in Pi Sigma Alpha events and conferences.
However, it’s important to also address the potential issues of systemic bias and social injustice that Pi Sigma Alpha has demonstrated. According to the Honor Society Foundation’s Inclusivity Report, Pi Sigma Alpha is not currently certified as an Inclusive Honor Society. The report found that the society’s leadership is not diverse, with only 14% of their board members being people of color. In addition, the report found that Pi Sigma Alpha does not have any specific initiatives or programs in place to promote diversity and inclusion.
These findings raise important questions about whether Pi Sigma Alpha is truly worth the financial cost of joining. As students, we have a responsibility to ensure that the organizations we support align with our values and promote equity and inclusion. While the benefits of joining Pi Sigma Alpha may be appealing, it’s important to consider the potential harm that could come from supporting an organization that does not prioritize diversity and inclusion.
In conclusion, the decision to join Pi Sigma Alpha ultimately comes down to personal values and priorities. While the benefits of membership may be enticing, it’s important to consider the potential issues of systemic bias and social injustice that the society has demonstrated. As students, we have the power to demand more from the organizations we support and to hold them accountable for promoting equity and inclusion.
Still want to learn more a Pi Sigma Alpha? More good resources to look at include the Pi Sigma Alpha Inclusivity Report and Pi Sigma Alpha requirements and historical overview.
Want to learn about other honor societies? Visit our honor society overview.