No matter what your chosen field of study, as a graduate student you want to remain in the mainstream of your desired field. Of course there are numerous ways that this could be accomplished - networking, trade and professional journals, etc. However, one great way to accomplish this is by joining a professional association. The benefits of joining professional organizations are plenteous, as we will discuss in this article. GradSchools.com, since its inception in 1995, has realized the importance of professional organizations. One organization with which they have developed a professional relationship is The National Association of Graduate Admissions Professionals (NAGAP). NAGAP is committed to serving the needs and interests of graduate admissions professionals. Professional organizations are available for almost any career field. You may join while enrolled in school or after graduation. However, fees are greatly reduced for students who are still in college. In addition to providing information about your chosen field, professional organizations enhance your professional development and provide endless networking opportunities. Associations may also provide monetary returns such as tuition assistance through private grants and fellowships.
Thanks to ever-growing digital technologies, information abounds. But sometimes sifting through the tons of information available can be mind-boggling, not to mention time consuming. Instead, professional associations provide journals, newsletters, and websites with invaluable information on up-to-date issues and developments in your specific field of interest.
Prospective employers seek out individuals whose field knowledge is not solely dependent on college studies; therefore, association memberships are excellent supplements for your resume. Memberships convey to an employer that you are dedicated to your field of study, while your savoir-faire during an interview will have you shining above other applicants. Your membership could also open doors of opportunity as you are provided with greater exposure to the job market - organizations provide "members only" job listings on their websites, journals, newsletters, or other publications.
Professional organizations are easy to find if you know where to look. Your career center and campus library can normally provide you with resources for on-campus and local chapters. One resource you may want to ask them for is the National Trade & Professional Associations directory (published by Columbia Books). The latest 2003 edition presents detailed contact and background information on over 7,500 trade associations, professional societies, technical organizations, and labor unions in the United States.
Below is a sample listing of prominent professional associations:
So whether you are looking to become part of a community within your chosen field of study, or you are searching for professional development to enhance your career opportunities, professional organizations are most certainly the way to go!
SDA Bocconi MIHMEP Program
The SDA Bocconi MIHMEP is the only programme so far that trains a new cadre of professionals by providing an interdisciplinary and international programme specifically focused on healthcare management and policy. Through an itinerary comprising 9 months of classroom activities and a three-month internship, participants will develop theoretical and practical skills in health care management, health economics, policy analysis and formulation, and epidemiology.
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