How important is the National Honor Society?

The National Honor Society (NHS) is the nation's premier organization established to recognize outstanding high school students. More than just an honor roll, NHS serves to recognize those students who have demonstrated excellence in the areas of scholarship, leadership, service, and character. These characteristics have been associated with membership in the organization since its beginning in 1921.Today, it is estimated that more than one million students participate in NHS activities. NHS chapters are found in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, many U.S. territories, and Canada. Chapter membership not only recognizes students for their accomplishments, but challenges them to develop further through active involvement in school activities and community service.
Being a member of the National Honor Society means more than just wearing an extra tassel on graduation day. The nationally recognized, volunteer-based club emphasizes leadership, academics and character in its criteria for student membership. But tassels aside, students are beginning to question the worth of the program before signing up.Many teens view having NHS on their resume as a prerequisite for getting into a good university. But then again, some students worry that colleges aren’t paying much attention to NHS enrollment these days.In other words, NHS doesn’t necessarily trump fencing club or weekend poetry slams. Colleges care about your dedication to the activities you’re involved with—not about how many clubs you can pile on your resume before graduation.Overall, while it may be hard to stand out in a nationwide organization like NHS, the benefits can be worth it for students who are willing to invest their time and effort.