The National Honor Society (NHS) is a program that “empowers and equips your students with the knowledge and skills to be transformative leaders in your school, community, and beyond.” At Our Lady of Good Counsel, the NHS program strives to provide juniors and seniors the chance to better themselves and present themself in a new light within the school community. The dream of joining the National Honor Society is shared by many; however, many do not know the requirements for joining the NHS.
The National Honor Society requirements for each school vary between schools, but with the use of Good Counsel’s student handbook, finding GC’s requirements for possible leadership status is no problem at all. Here are the expectations of an incoming NHS leader:
Grade Point Average (GPA)
- Have at least one completed academic year
- Students must have a weighted 3.5 GPA.
- A student can not have any “Ds” or “Fs” when applying.
Leadership and Character
- Students who apply should demonstrate interest in other hobbies or events
- A student must demonstrate leadership or character through their activity.
Academic Record
- Students must have a clean academic record that would not tarnish their name within the NHS community.
Service
- Students are required to complete an additional 20 service hours in their academic year as a requirement of an Honor Society Leader. The amount of service required varies depending on the amount of participation in leadership events.
Class of 2025 NHS leader Andrew Ionata reiterates these expectations through his advice: “My advice would be to focus on keeping their grades up, getting involved in extracurricular activities, and showing leadership and community service.”
Membership in the NHS program is available in the fall of each year to rising juniors and seniors. As long as the GPA requirement is met, the student will receive an invitation.
These are all the requirements to become a Good Counsel National Honor Society candidate. Good luck to everyone in reaching this profound achievement!