National Honor’s Society, according to the NHS Arrowhead website says, “is the most prestigious of national organizations and societies that promote appropriate recognition for students who reflect outstanding accomplishments in the areas of academics, character, leadership, and service.”

Sophomores, juniors, and seniors are eligible to apply for membership for NHS. To be considered for NHS, students need to have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher and have an active role in the community and in the school.

Megan Orlandini, a senior at Mukwonago High School and a National Honors Society member, says, “I wanted to join because it looks good on college application.”

The membership’s selection process is long and tough. The NHS website says, “All faculty members are asked to evaluate eligible students in the areas of character and classroom / school leadership. These evaluations and the student-submitted information forms are given to a five-member faculty council, whose members are chosen by the principal in accordance with the national guidelines.”

Membership is given to a student if they receive 3 or more votes by the faculty council. These votes are usually based on how well they score on a 4 point scale in academics, leadership, and community service.

National Honors Society is more than an award. It is also a commitment. The NHS website says there are requirements to be in NHS:, “At Arrowhead this means that there is a minimum commitment of one 45 minute meeting per month (at 6:45 a.m.), as well as one or two committee meetings each month. Each member is expected to be on at least one committee, and also to complete at least six hours of NHS-related service each semester.”

Orlandini says, “We talk about leadership and they offer volunteer opportunities. My favorite thing about NHS is that it motivates me to volunteer. It is sort of a lot of work to be in, you have to keep a 3.5 GPA and do a lot of volunteer work and to get in you have to prove your leadership and community service skills.”

All this work could pay off in the end because the National Honors Society does give out scholarships to high school students across the country.

The National honors Society website says, “Scholarships (have been provided) since 1946, providing more than $10 million in scholarship funds to outstanding NHS members. The program awards $250,000 annually.

To apply for these scholarships, National Honors Society says, “Students that are currently affiliated, active NHS chapters may participate in the NHS Scholarship Program. Nominees must be senior (12th grade), NHS member students in good standing, generally meaning they continue to meet their chapter’s standards and obligations.”

Orlandini says, “My advice for someone who wants to join is to go for it because it will pay off in the long run.”