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Is the National Society of Leadership and Success Legitimate? A Deep Dive

Yes, the National Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS) is a legitimate organization, but with important caveats. While it offers opportunities for leadership development, networking, and scholarship access, prospective members should carefully weigh the costs and benefits to determine if it aligns with their individual needs and goals.

Understanding the NSLS: More Than Just a Resume Booster

The NSLS has a strong presence on college campuses across the United States. It pitches itself as the largest leadership honor society in the country, promising members access to a network of like-minded individuals, valuable leadership training, and the opportunity to enhance their resumes. But what’s really going on behind the curtain? Let’s unpack the details.

What the NSLS Offers

Leadership Training: The NSLS boasts a comprehensive leadership development program based on video presentations by motivational speakers, success networking teams (SNTs), and goal setting exercises. The curriculum is designed to improve communication skills, build confidence, and instill a sense of purpose.
Networking Opportunities: One of the biggest draws of the NSLS is the chance to connect with other high-achieving students, faculty, and alumni. This network can be invaluable for career advice, mentorship, and job opportunities.
Scholarship and Award Programs: The society offers a variety of scholarships and awards to recognize and support its members’ academic and leadership achievements. These financial resources can be a significant benefit for students facing tuition costs.
Resume Enhancement: Membership in the NSLS can be a useful addition to a resume, signaling a commitment to leadership and personal development. However, its value varies depending on the employer’s perception of the organization.

Potential Downsides to Consider

Membership Fees: The NSLS requires a membership fee, which can be a barrier for some students. The fee covers access to the society’s resources and programs, but it’s important to consider whether the potential benefits outweigh the cost.
Varying Chapter Quality: The experience of being an NSLS member can vary significantly depending on the quality of the local chapter. Some chapters are highly active and engaged, while others may be less so. Before joining, research the chapter’s activities and engagement level on your campus.
“Pay-to-Play” Perception: Because membership requires a fee, some critics argue that the NSLS is a “pay-to-play” organization that primarily benefits from membership dues rather than providing substantial value to its members.
Lack of Exclusivity: With a large membership base, the NSLS isn’t necessarily as exclusive as some other honor societies. This can diminish the impact of membership on a resume, as it might not stand out as much as membership in a more selective organization.

Making an Informed Decision

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to join the NSLS depends on individual circumstances and priorities. If you are looking for structured leadership training, networking opportunities, and potential scholarship access, and you are willing to pay the membership fee, the NSLS may be a worthwhile investment. However, if you are primarily seeking a resume booster or are concerned about the cost, you may want to explore other leadership development opportunities that align better with your needs.

Before joining, it’s crucial to:

Research the local chapter: Find out how active the chapter is, what events it hosts, and what opportunities it offers.
Talk to current members: Get firsthand feedback on their experiences with the society.
Compare the cost with the potential benefits: Determine whether the membership fee is a worthwhile investment for you.
Consider other leadership opportunities: Explore other clubs, organizations, and programs on campus that may offer similar benefits without the cost of membership.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the NSLS

Here are some frequently asked questions to further address the legitimacy and value of the National Society of Leadership and Success.

1. Is the NSLS a Scam?

No, the NSLS is not a scam. It is a registered organization that provides leadership training and networking opportunities to its members. However, whether it’s a worthwhile investment depends on your individual circumstances and expectations. Be wary of overblown promises and focus on the tangible benefits offered by the local chapter.

2. What are the requirements for joining the NSLS?

Membership requirements typically include maintaining a certain GPA (usually a 3.0 or higher), being nominated by a faculty member or administrator, and paying the membership fee. Specific requirements may vary slightly by chapter.

3. How much does it cost to join the NSLS?

The membership fee varies but generally ranges from $85 to $95. This fee is a one-time payment that grants lifetime access to the society’s resources and programs.

4. Is the NSLS recognized by employers?

Some employers recognize and value membership in the NSLS as a sign of leadership potential and commitment to personal development. However, others may not be familiar with the organization or may not place as much weight on it as other qualifications.

5. What are the benefits of attending NSLS events?

NSLS events offer opportunities for networking, leadership training, and personal growth. You can learn from guest speakers, participate in workshops, and connect with other students and professionals.

6. Does the NSLS offer scholarships?

Yes, the NSLS offers a variety of scholarships to its members. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership involvement, and financial need.

7. What is the Success Networking Team (SNT) program?

The SNT program is a key component of the NSLS leadership development curriculum. It involves small groups of members meeting regularly to support each other in achieving their goals and developing their leadership skills.

8. How does the NSLS compare to other honor societies?

The NSLS differs from some other honor societies in its focus on leadership development and its larger membership base. Some other honor societies may be more academically focused or more selective in their membership criteria.

9. Can I put NSLS membership on my resume?

Yes, you can and should include NSLS membership on your resume. It can be a positive addition, especially if you highlight any leadership roles you held or activities you participated in within the organization.

10. What if I can’t afford the membership fee?

Some NSLS chapters offer payment plans or scholarships to help students who cannot afford the membership fee. Contact your local chapter to inquire about available options.

11. How active is the NSLS chapter on my campus?

The level of activity varies by campus. Research the local chapter’s activities, attend a meeting, and talk to current members to get a sense of their engagement level. A more active chapter will naturally provide more value.

12. Is the NSLS worth it?

The value of NSLS membership is subjective and depends on your individual goals and circumstances. If you are looking for structured leadership training, networking opportunities, and potential scholarship access, and you are willing to pay the membership fee, the NSLS may be a worthwhile investment. However, carefully weigh the costs and benefits before making a decision.