Is NSHSS worth the price?

I recently received an invitation to join the National Society of High School Scholars (NSHSS), but I'm not sure if it's worth the price. What are the pros and cons of joining? And will it actually help with my college applications?

It's good that you're carefully considering whether NSHSS is worth the price. Here's a general overview of the pros and cons:

Pros:

1. Access to scholarships: NSHSS provides its members with access to some exclusive scholarships. While these opportunities are not guaranteed, it is a potential benefit for you.

2. Networking: Joining NSHSS might connect you with like-minded students through their online community, which may help you broaden both your academic and personal networks. Additionally, it offers educational events, including college fairs.

Cons:

1. Cost: The membership fee for NSHSS is not minimal. You need to evaluate whether the associated benefits justify the expense for you.

2. Perception: It is important to note that NSHSS is not as prestigious as honor societies like National Honor Society (NHS) or the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. College admissions officers are more familiar with organizations like NHS or IB, so being a part of one of them is typically going to impress more than NSHSS.

In terms of college applications, being a member of NSHSS is unlikely to significantly boost your chances. However, the scholarships and networking opportunities could be valuable, depending on your individual circumstances.

If you'd like to learn more about the value (or lack thereof) of NSHSS, check out this blog post from CollegeVine: https://blog.collegevine.com/is-nshss-legitimate-or-a-scam/. When it comes to extracurriculars, remember that admissions officers value commitment and leadership in activities that align with your strengths and interests, whether through a club or team at your school, a community service organization, or a research project, more than just being a member of a group like NSHSS.

Ultimately, the decision on whether to join NSHSS depends on your financial situation, priorities, and personal preferences. If you're interested in the potential scholarships and networking, it may be worth the price. If not, focus on strengthening your profile through other meaningful extracurricular activities or honor societies with a more widely recognized reputation. Good luck!