The National Honor Society hosted an information session for interested sophomores and juniors in the auditorium on Feb. 12. Six officers presented a powerpoint about the application process and shared advice based on their personal experiences.
The information session went over application details like recommendation letters and the essay. Nominated candidates are given until March 7 to complete their applications. According to social studies teacher and NHS co-advisor Jennifer Kuhleman, everything is viewed according to a rubric, and students earn points for each part of the application.
“Your application is being reviewed by individuals that likely do not know who you are,” Kuhleman said. “And if it’s generic, nothing is setting yourself apart from the other candidates applying.”
During the meeting, Kulheman elaborated on each specific part of the application. One of the most crucial parts of the application she highlighted is the essay asking how students embody the four NHS pillars: scholarship, leadership, character and service.
“Spend a lot of time on the essay, don’t just write it at the last minute,” senior and service vice president Sofia Giuliani said. “Make it as personal as possible and think about what you want to convey to the people reading your application.”
NHS is one of the largest and most widely recognized co-curricular student organizations in American high schools. It is also one of the oldest, with Bellaire’s chapter records dating back to 1955. It gives students the chance to be recognized for their academic and service achievements.
“I’ve been the NHS advisor at Bellaire for five years and my biggest tip is to not wait until the last minute to finish your application,” Kulheman said. “Contact whomever you are considering asking for a letter of recommendation.”
AP World history and committee member Justin Cothran acknowledges that members are leaders of the community and it’s an honor to be nominated. Accepted members are carefully selected through a committee of teachers that get asked about students’ character and academic integrity.
“It’s much more than simply good grades – we are looking for the best of the best,” Cothran said. “We are looking for servant leaders, those who stand out for character and scholarship both in and out of school.”
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