Getting into NHS is often a daunting task for students to face; however, it does not have to be. Many students have made it through the application process, which includes the application form, an in-person interview with a board of teachers, and, hopefully, an acceptance letter. Students have to express the following qualifications: leadership skills, success in academics, sports, or arts; service hours; the list continues. It is especially important to make a lasting impression in your interview, since it is your one chance to ratify the question: “Why should we induct you?” A few students at CHS were willing to give their advice on how to make your way in the NHS program.
Before filling out your application for NHS, think about what you enjoy doing inside and outside of school. For school activities, consider clubs or arts that you excel in, especially if you have a leadership role. The same rules apply to extracurricular activities, like sports or theater. Showing the board of teachers you have passion can help to potray that you can handle being an NHS member. Junior Paige Hefferman said, “One really important aspect is to have something you are passionate about. Whether it be in leadership or service, you want to be able to convey your enjoyment in an activity.”
Once you are past the application, if they see your potential, they invite you back for an interview. This is arguably the most difficult part of the process, but also the most important. Preparing for an interview is a challenging task; however, with proper preparation it does not need to be. If you are prepared, you will be able to answer the questions quickly and with intent. Junior Sadie Kidd said, “I believe what made me most successful during the interview was answering quickly and honestly. I usually just said the first thing that came to mind, whilst speaking quickly, speaking professionally, and showing my personality.”
After the students’ interviews, they must wait for their acceptance letter. It takes around a week of analyzing before the students are decided, while the applicants wait impatiently. In addition, the letters mean either rejection or acceptance, which creates a stress-filled environment. In the end, students have to remain calm, and hopefully they will succeed. Junior Megan Harrell said, “When I read my acceptance letter and found out that I had been accepted into NHS, I was incredibly happy. There is no greater feeling than knowing your hard work paid off.”
Overall, getting into NHS involves hard work and dedication to your craft, whatever that may be. While some may succeed and others may not, you should always try to achieve your goals. If you are an underclassmen that does well in leadership positions and has many passions, you should consider applying to the program. Also, if you are planning to apply to a highly competitive college, this could help set you apart from other applicants. It is never too soon to start planning for your future, so do not be afraid to set your future self up for success.
