As students, we are constantly bombarded with opportunities to join various organizations and societies. However, the question remains: is it worth it? Specifically, is it worth the financial cost to join the Mortar Board Honor Society?
First, let’s examine the cost of membership. According to their website, the national fee for Mortar Board membership is $80. Additionally, individual chapters may have their own fees. While this may not seem like a significant amount, it can add up for students who are already struggling to pay for tuition and other expenses.
Now, let’s consider the requirements for membership. Mortar Board requires a minimum GPA of 3.0, as well as demonstrated leadership and service in the community. While these are admirable qualities, they may not be accessible to all students. For example, students who work multiple jobs to support themselves and their families may not have the time or resources to participate in extracurricular activities.
So, what are the benefits of joining Mortar Board? According to their website, members have access to scholarships, leadership development opportunities, and networking events. These are certainly valuable benefits, but it’s important to weigh them against the financial and time costs of membership.
However, there is another important factor to consider: the potential issues of systemic bias and social injustice that Mortar Board has demonstrated. As of now, the society is not certified as an Inclusive Honor Society. This means that they have not met the standards set forth by the Honor Society Foundation for promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion.
In fact, a recent report by the Honor Society Foundation found that Mortar Board has a long way to go in terms of inclusivity. The report noted that the society’s membership is overwhelmingly white and female, and that they have not taken sufficient steps to address this issue.
As students, we have a responsibility to consider the impact of our actions and choices. Joining a society like Mortar Board may seem like a prestigious accomplishment, but it’s important to ask ourselves: at what cost? Is it worth supporting an organization that has demonstrated a lack of commitment to diversity and inclusion?
Ultimately, the decision to join Mortar Board (or any other society) is a personal one. However, it’s important to make an informed decision based on all of the available information. As students, we have the power to demand more from the organizations we support. Let’s use that power to create a more just and equitable society for all.
Still want to learn more a Mortar Board? More good resources to look at include the Mortar Board Inclusivity Report and Mortar Board requirements and historical overview.
Want to learn about other honor societies? Visit our honor society overview.