F.A.Q. (Frequently Asked Questions)
So Why Should I Join Psi Chi?
Joining Psi Chi has many benefits including getting to know others in your major and department, providing academic recognition to those who excel, learning how to apply for graduate school (if you plan on applying), learning what things you must do outside of class work to get into a graduate program (such as GRE exams, personal statements, community service, research experience, etc), exploring the jobs available in the workforce and what is expected in that particular job, meeting with professionals currently in the field, working cooperatively with other members on projects outside of class, having moral support in the process of applying to graduate programs, and so forth. As it can be seen, there is a wide array of benefits to being a member of Psi Chi. And the list does not stop there.
How Does Psi Chi Help Me Academically?
Psi Chi can help you succeed in your educational goals by providing you with vital and pertinent information. Workshops are regularly scheduled on topics such as the different disciplines in psychology, graduate school applications, how to get letters of recommendation and writing curriculum vitaes. You will also have the opportunity to talk to officers and senior and alumni members who can provide you with valuable insight as to which classes and professors will aid you the most in your pursuits.
Is There A Fun Side To Psi Chi?
Although Psi Chi is an honor society dedicated to help those involved in psychology to pursue their profession, it’s not all work and no play. Psi Chi also provides a social environment for its members and sponsors recreational activities as well as educational ones. Psi Chi organizes socials, fundraisers and charity drives that are designed to help members get to know one another and network with the community. Please check the calendar for details.
When Are The Meetings?
We hold weekly meetings on Tuesdays from 12-1pm both virtually, and in-person. Check out our Instagram for more details about guest speakers, locations and zoom links, and updates about weekly meetings.
I Have Other Time Commitments, But I Still Want To Join...
College is a very exciting time and it is easy to become over involved very fast, especially with as many clubs and organizations that Cal Poly Pomona had to offer. Psi Chi provides a great opportunity for academic success, career exploration, social networking and personal growth however you only get out what you put into the organization and club. As a member you can chose to be as involved as you like, whether that be just attending weekly meetings or also becoming active within the community with our service projects. Be sure to manage your time wisely and talk with your advisor or the current executive board members if you are unsure of whether or not you can successfully manage your current commitments with Psi Chi. That being said, many students join Psi Chi just to put it on their resume and while this is definitely a plus it should not be the only reason you join. Psi Chi has a lot to offer if you make the effort to become actively involved and attend our events throughout the year. Also keep in mind that you must fulfill the chapter requirements in order to be inducted into this honor society. So the appropriate answer depends if you will be committed enough to attend enough events to earn points towards induction while also having time to study and keep your grades up to meet the academic requirement. The Psi Chi chapter of Cal Poly Pomona is paired with the Psychology club so some students who do not meet the requirements for becoming an international member choose attend meetings and events as a member of the Psychology club.
Okay, I Want To Be An Officer In Psi Chi, What Do I Now?
The first step would be to become an active member and attend our events. Try to meet new people within the club and develop close relationships with your peers. Near the end of each academic year we hold elections for those who wish to become an officer. The members of Psi Chi submit nominations for those individuals they believe would make the best fit for a position. National positions require International Membership and include: President, Vice President, Treasurer and Secretary. Other prospective positions include: Public Relations/Historian, Social Chair/Conference Representative, and C.L.A.S.S. Council Representative. Two weeks after nominations are received, elections are held during a general meeting and officers are elected based upon a majority vote.
How do I contact the Psi Chi Central Office?
PH (423) 756-2044 | FX (877) 774-2443 | [email protected] | www.psichi.org
REGULAR MAIL: Psi Chi Central Office; PO Box 709; Chattanooga, TN 37401-0709