As students prepare for graduation and transferring to four-year universities, Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society offers their members scholarship opportunities and assists them to become job ready.
According to the Phi Theta Kappa website, the eligibility for membership are: students must be enrolled in a regionally accredited institution offering an associate degree program, completed at least 12 hours of coursework, a grade point average (GPA) of 3.5 or above, must receive invitation from the chapter at the college enrolled, and must adhere to the moral standards of the society.
“Once students are given an invitation from the Omega Theta Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa, they are to pay the $75 membership fee and will forever be a part of the organization,” Omega Theta Vice President of Marketing and Public Relations Evan Lish said.
“The fee covers the dues owed to the National Phi Theta Kappa organization and allows them to access to vast tools and benefits for college success,” Lish said.
Lish also added that there are $37 million in scholarships, including opportunities to four-year universities, benefits for military personnel and veterans, and from Ivy League schools.
Members receive free membership to CollegeFish.org and to Five Star Competitive Edge, a personal and professional development plan for building marketable skills and an online portfolio.
“Phi Theta Kappa is more than just about academic success, it is also selfless service to the community,” Omega Theta Chapter Vice President Zoila Pina said.
“Members can increase morale through volunteering, network through the people they meet, and [learn to] come off as a well-rounded person during the academic and job interview process,” Pina said.
Pina also added that students with a high GPA will increase their chances in being accepted by the transfer school of their choice and open the doors to numerous scholarship opportunities.
According to the University of Washington (UW) website, admission is competitive, which means that there are more applicants who meet the minimum qualifications than the university can accommodate. Applicants are assessed holistically based on their academic performance and personal qualities and achievements.
Angelique Berry, a receptionist at Knutson, Trolson & Fargher, P.S. Inc. in Lakewood, said: “The hiring process depends on the position the college graduate is applying for. For example, a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) position would require a well-rounded person involved with internships, community service, and have graduated with a high GPA. As for a receptionist a GPA is important, but as long as they have a good personality and are well-rounded they may still be hired.”
The Omega Theta committee hopes to increase volunteer opportunities and invite more students to become part of the honor society.
In fall quarter, the honor society was involved in a basketball fundraiser and multiple coat drives. An induction ceremony was held on Nov. 30, and on Jan. 4 there was a kickoff for the Relay for Life breast cancer awareness event.
The honor society encourages members to attend their first meeting for winter quarter on Jan. 11. All members will receive an e-mail with detailed information about future meetings, fundraisers and scholarship opportunities.
On graduation day, these honor society members will receive a Press Release announcing their academic achievements and the official seal of Phi Theta Kappa on their college diplomas.
For more information about the benefits of being a Phi Theta Kappa member, visit the website: http://www.ptk.org/?q=become-a-member/benefits or contact Omega Theta President Heidy Carrera at phone number – 253-964-7326, extension: 4026.