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The advantages of being involved in a professional organization for health science students are significant. Seeking membership in a professional organization while still in school is an important way to gain valuable connections and insight into the professional world. It’s not uncommon for recent graduates to feel “at sea” when looking for a job, and a professional organization is a great way to prepare for graduation and get a job after study is complete.
Career Planning and Professional Associations
In today’s competitive job market, every advantage a student can find regarding job placement and connections is essential. Membership in a health sciences professional association not only helps through the sponsored events and meetings available to members, but it also helps students stay up-to-date on recent developments in the healthcare industry.
High-quality college programs will always update their curriculum in a timely manner, but professional associations are often ahead of the curve when it comes to new ideas. A professional association may also have high profile members from whom recent graduates and students may learn valuable concepts about health sciences.
Funding College and Professional Development
One of the immediate advantages of being involved in a professional organization for health science students is that some associations offer students the opportunity to apply for scholarships. High school students who already know they wish to study in an area of health sciences will want to investigate student membership in a professional association to gain access to those valuable scholarships.
Additionally, after graduation, students will have access to continuing professional education, which may be required to maintain certain certifications. Yearly meetings that feature panels, discussions, and further training are also valuable for professionals seeking to further their career beyond college. Students who attend yearly meetings may have the opportunity to work with a mentor for the valuable guidance someone with years of experience can provide.
Professional Associations to Join
There are a variety of health sciences professional organizations for students, and the best association may depend upon a student’s future goals and in the membership benefits offered by each association. For example, students who are interested in entering health sciences as a teacher will want to investigate the National Consortium for Health Science Education.
Alternatively, students may consider membership in the Health Science Communications Association, which is designed to foster communication and the exchange of ideas within health and science. Depending upon a student’s final goals for job title, other generalized health associations exist which may be of value like the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and the American College of Healthcare Executives.
Further Benefits of Professional Associations
Most professional organizations require a yearly membership fee, and that fee may vary depending on a member’s status. Applying for membership as a student often features a lower fee than full professional membership. Additionally, the membership fees for professional associations are sometimes a cost that may be taken off a student or graduate’s taxes.
A student who wishes to work in healthcare will want to seek out early membership in a professional organization. The advantages to members who are still in school are worth the cost of the membership fees. The advantages of being involved in a professional organization for health science students are numerous, and all students in healthcare programs should consider enrolling.
For more information on enrolling in a health science program, please see: Top 20 Most Affordable Health Science Degree Programs.
