<p>I’ll be starting my junior year this Fall. I’ve come across a couple of professional societies in my chosen field that have student membership options. Some of the benefits include access to journals in the field, newsletters, and reduced prices on books. Are these memberships geared more toward grad students? I just have a feeling that joining would be ambitious in the worst sort of way – kind of like crashing a block party in a neighborhood you dream about living in. What are your thoughts? </p>
<p>@jopeyjames, getting a student membership in professional organizations is a super idea for undergraduates, especially Junior and Seniors. Print out the form. It usually requires the signature of your department chair. Have the form completed before you make an appointment to talk with your department chair. </p>
<p>You will typically receive a periodic electronic newsletter or paper magazine with very interesting new stories in the your area of study. It will also have information about the various happenings in that society at many universities and institutes, as well as conference notices. This will give you a real world look into your chosen field.</p>
<p>Student fees are considerably less than regular member fees. It is quite a bargain. Go for it!</p>
<p>I agree 100%!</p>