is PTK worth Joining?

Many first-year college students think that joining an association or group is the least of their responsibilities, but given all of the benefits of joining PTK, they can’t help but wonder if it’s worth it. For two-year college students, Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) is an international honor society. 

Since its founding in 1918, it has expanded to include more than 1,285 chapters both domestically and outside the country. PTK provides a number of advantages to its members and focuses on identifying and promoting learning success among students attending community colleges. 

For two-year institutions, Phi Theta Kappa is the international honor society.  For those attending community colleges hoping to improve their transfer applications, obtain leadership experience, and establish connections with a network of accomplished peers, Phi Theta Kappa will be a worthwhile organization to join.

Being a member of Phi Theta Kappa is by invitation only. Students who attend universities having a PTK chapter and who have finished at least 12 hours of schoolwork toward an associate’s or bachelor’s degree are invited to join. Additionally, a GPA of 3.5 is necessary, though chapters are free to raise it.

It is the official honor society of community colleges, so in order to be eligible for membership, you must be enrolled in one. Those enrolled in two- and four-year programs are eligible for an invitation to participate. Do not worry if you are a certificate program participant; you might also be invited!

Is it worthwhile to join PTK?

PTK members enjoy a number of benefits, such as those that make the transfer from a 2-year school to a 4-year college or university simpler and more affordable thanks to scholarship programs, making the investment worthwhile.  According to Sheila, a UCA transfer student, PTK was the best thing that happened to her during her undergraduate year because she was awarded three scholarships that paid for her education. 

Costs of Phi Theta Kappa Membership

The unique feature of Phi Theta Kappa is that membership fees are only required once. You can join the organization by paying $80 at the local chapter’s headquarters. However, it’s crucial to remember that there will also be a regional fee to pay.

Frequently asked questions

Does PTK look good on your resume?

Although joining will always look good on your resume, you might not gain much from it unless you want to apply for scholarships or transfer to a four-year university where PTK members are automatically awarded scholarships.

How prestigious is PTK?

Since its founding in 1918, Phi Theta Kappa has honored academic achievement in two-year colleges and grown to become the biggest and most esteemed international honor society serving two-year colleges worldwide.

Do I have to do anything if I join Phi Theta Kappa?

Although they don’t require it, taking advantage of PTK’s benefits will yield the best experience for you. The only requirements that active members have are those set forth by their local chapter.

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