Office of Student Life
Career Resource Guide
Bronze Brutus statue in the Ohio Union

Professional Organizations

Joining a professional organization, even as a student, can have amazing benefits. Whether you have decided on a career path or are still exploring, professional organizations can help you in your journey.

Benefits of joining a professional organization:

  • If you are still not 100% sure about your career path, joining a professional organization in a field that interests you can give you the opportunity to explore before committing to a career. A professional membership will give you access to journal articles, conferences, and networking opportunities.
  • Staying active in a professional organization can help you stay current in your field. Not only can this help you in your classes, but it can also give you a reason to strike up a conversation with a faculty member or give you an excuse to attend their office hours.
  • Many professional organizations sponsor annual conferences or other regional events. If you can attend some of these events, you will have the opportunity to network with leaders in your field.
  • Many organizations offer seminars or webinars on important topics. You will have the opportunity to hear leaders in the field and learn about new developments. You will be able to follow new trends and areas of growth in the field, which may lead you to specialize your studies in emerging areas of importance.
  • You may be able to take advantage of scholarships offered by the organization.
  • You will be able to learn about the professional attitude of your chosen field. You will see and learn about how professionals in the field behave.
  • Many organizations offer networking opportunities. You will make connections, which can be helpful when looking for internships and job opportunities.
  • Some organizations may offer internship opportunities that are only available to members.
  • Many organizations sponsor job boards or placement services.
  • Membership in a professional organization looks great on a resume.

If you are concerned about affording a professional organization membership, do some research and consider your options. Many organizations will offer student membership at greatly reduced rates.

If you do not have a professional organization in mind already, you can often find information online by Googling your intended profession and “professional organizations.” You can also ask your professors for suggestions on where to start if you feel stuck.