The National Honor Society (NHS) is a prestigious organization recognized throughout the United States. But What Is Nhs exactly? This guide will answer that question and explore its purpose, benefits, and membership requirements. Understanding the National Honor Society can provide valuable insights for high school students aiming for academic excellence, leadership roles, and community involvement.
Understanding the National Honor Society
The National Honor Society (NHS) stands as one of the oldest and most reputable student organizations within American high schools, boasting a membership of 1.4 million students. The core mission of NHS revolves around fostering scholarship, leadership, service, and character among its members. Established in 1921 by Dr. Edward Rynearson, the NHS has expanded to include over 17,000 chapters, incorporating the National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) and the National Elementary Honor Society. This framework allows each local chapter to tailor its activities while upholding the foundational principles set forth by the national organization.
Alt: High school students collaborate on a project, exemplifying NHS’s values of service and teamwork.
What is the National Junior Honor Society?
Expanding the values of NHS to younger students, The National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) was founded in 1929 by the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP). It caters to middle school students in grades 6-9. NJHS shares the same foundational values as NHS: scholarship, service, leadership, character, and citizenship.
Membership in NJHS requires a minimum GPA of 3.0, though the specific GPA requirement may vary across different schools. With a global membership exceeding one million, NJHS empowers young students to cultivate their academic and leadership skills, setting them up for future success in high school and beyond.
The Core Purpose of the National Honor Society
The NHS exists to acknowledge and encourage outstanding qualities in high school students. While academic performance is a key aspect, NHS also places significant emphasis on developing leadership capabilities, promoting community service engagement, and instilling strong character traits. By participating in NHS, students are encouraged to strive for academic excellence and become positive role models within their respective school environments.
The society emphasizes the importance of community contribution. Members participate in diverse service initiatives, gaining invaluable insights into the significance of assisting others and creating meaningful change. The principles of honesty, respect, and responsibility are instilled, thereby enhancing character development. The NHS prepares students for long-term success by providing balanced growth encompassing academics, leadership qualities, community involvement, and personal integrity.
How to Become a Member of the National Honor Society
Excelling academically, leading by example, serving the community, and achieving success are at the heart of NHS membership. Students who thrive on challenges and strive for excellence will find that joining NHS offers unparalleled opportunities. Membership is a distinguished honor, beginning with a local selection process and culminating in an induction ceremony into the school’s NHS chapter.
Alt: High school students being inducted into the National Honor Society, symbolizing academic and leadership achievement.
To begin, prospective members should determine if their school has an NHS chapter. This information can typically be found in the student handbook or by contacting the school’s main office. The chapter adviser, a faculty member, can provide details regarding GPA requirements and the selection process timeline. NHS membership grants access to exclusive resources, programs, and services designed to foster success in both college and future careers.
Key Eligibility Requirements
NHS membership is open to students in grades 10-12 who have been enrolled at their current school for at least one semester and meet the GPA requirement set by their local chapter. Evaluation goes beyond grades, focusing on four pillars:
- Scholarship: A minimum cumulative GPA, typically around 85, a B average, or a 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, is required. Some chapters may set higher standards.
- Service: Demonstrated through voluntary contributions to the school or community without financial compensation. Each chapter establishes specific service expectations.
- Leadership: Displayed through resourcefulness, problem-solving skills, and participation in school or community initiatives. Leadership can be demonstrated in various roles.
- Character: Exhibited through honesty, reliability, courtesy, respect, and a clean disciplinary record. The local chapter sets criteria for assessing character.
Advantages of Joining the National Honor Society
High school students pursue NHS membership for various compelling reasons, including a strong sense of community and pride in their achievements. NHS provides numerous advantages.
Opportunities for Leadership Development
- LEAD Conferences: These conferences, focusing on Leadership, Experience, and Development, are held throughout the year exclusively for NHS and Junior NHS members. They offer invaluable opportunities to enhance leadership skills and expand professional networks.
- National Student Leadership Week: Schools celebrate National Student Leadership Week annually to recognize student leaders. NHS members can be recognized or participate in event planning.
- State Summits: These mentorship and networking events, designed specifically for NHS members, allow students to collaborate and discuss real-world issues in their communities.
Benefits for College and Career
- College Scholarships: The NHS awards college scholarships to members in good standing. Over 400 scholarship programs are available each year, in addition to a database of other scholarship opportunities.
- College Admission Advantages: NHS membership enhances college applications. The NHS also hosts webinars providing insights into college admissions and how to craft the best possible application.
- College and Financial Aid Planning: NHS offers planning services, step-by-step guides, and webinars for college preparation, along with information on top colleges. It connects members with financial aid advisors and provides resources on financial planning for college.
- Community Service Opportunities: The NHS provides access to a vast database of community service opportunities. Participation and completion of service hours are tracked, which strengthens college applications and resumes.
What Happens If Your Application Is Denied?
If your NHS application is denied, you have the option to appeal the decision locally, typically within your high school. Seeking feedback from an advisor or guidance counselor can provide insights into the reasons for the denial. This might stem from a late grade submission impacting your GPA or insufficient community service hours.
Although a formal explanation isn’t always provided, reflecting on your past year and aligning your actions with NHS values can be insightful. Regardless of the outcome, you can reapply the following year with an improved GPA and additional community service hours. Rejected applications do not appear on transcripts, so it will not affect future opportunities.
Activities of National Honor Society Members
Newly inducted NHS members begin by attending a local induction ceremony with their peers, often including guest speakers, welcomes from local leaders, the honor society pledge, and opportunities to network with other members.
Throughout the year, NHS members may participate in chapter meetings and are expected to complete a set number of volunteer hours. Members also have access to exclusive leadership events, such as state summits and national leadership conferences, providing valuable developmental opportunities.
Alt: NHS members volunteering in a community garden, illustrating the society’s commitment to service.
Maximizing Your Chances of Joining the National Honor Society
Embody the Core Values
Your application to the NHS should reflect the four core values: leadership, academics, character, and service. Maintaining a GPA of 3.0 or higher, engaging in community service, taking standardized tests seriously, pursuing leadership opportunities, and maintaining a clean disciplinary record are essential.
Research Chapter Requirements
If your school lacks an NHS chapter, explore neighboring schools for local chapters. Identify specific entry and membership maintenance requirements before applying.
Seek a Teacher Nomination
Secure a nomination from a teacher who knows you well, often requiring just a signature or letter. It’s best to approach a teacher with whom you have a strong personal connection.
Is NHS Membership Worth It?
Historically, NHS membership has been considered a valuable asset for college admissions, showcasing leadership, community engagement, service, and academic commitment.
However, the prevalence of NHS membership has led some to question its continued significance. While GPA is a factor for both NHS and college admissions, there are various alternative ways to demonstrate service, leadership, and academic dedication that can distinguish you and offer admissions committees a more comprehensive understanding of your potential.
That being said, joining NHS may not require significant additional effort. If your school mandates volunteer hours, or if you already participate in them, applying to NHS can be a seamless process.
NHS is a valuable addition to college applications and provides numerous leadership opportunities beneficial for both college and life. Additionally, the National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) provides middle school students with similar benefits, encouraging early growth in scholarship, service, leadership, and character.
FAQs
What is the National Honor Society (NHS)?
The National Honor Society (NHS) is a distinguished organization that recognizes high school students for their academic achievements, leadership skills, service contributions, and character traits. Founded in 1921, the NHS is dedicated to promoting scholarship, leadership, service, and character development among its members.
What is the National Junior Honor Society (NJHS)?
The National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) is an international organization for middle school students (grades 6-9), fostering values of scholarship, service, leadership, character, and citizenship. Established in 1929, NJHS offers young students opportunities to develop their academic and leadership skills from an early age.
What are the steps to becoming a member of the NHS?
To become a member, determine if your school has an NHS chapter and meet the eligibility criteria, including a minimum GPA specified by the chapter. Demonstrate excellence in scholarship, service, leadership, and character. The Faculty Council will evaluate candidates based on these attributes during the selection process.
Are there reasons for a qualified student not to apply?
While NHS membership provides numerous advantages, it also requires commitment to upholding high standards and engaging in service projects. Students with already demanding schedules or those unable to meet the membership obligations might consider if it aligns with their current priorities.
How valuable is National Honor Society membership?
NHS membership is highly regarded and can strengthen college applications by highlighting a student’s dedication to academics, leadership, and community service. Given its widespread presence, students should explore additional avenues to distinguish themselves. If your school already requires volunteer hours, joining NHS might not entail considerable extra effort and can still offer valuable leadership opportunities.
