Student Psychological Association (SPA)

SPA is a general interest Psychology organization in conjunction with Psi Chi. The two organizations function as a whole in all meetings and activities. This is to include all those with an interest in psychology as a hobby or career, and serves to provide members with both educational and social experiences.

The purpose of the Student Psychological Association (SPA) is to advance the understanding of human behavior, stimulate expansion of the science of psychology, and encourage application of this knowledge to a common purpose that benefits all disciplines. Membership in the association is open to students of all majors.

The SPA advocates for the interests of students in the School of Psychological and Behavioral Sciences, provides a source for current news outside the classroom, and serves as a sponsor for on- and off-campus functions related to psychology. The SPA, in conjunction with Psi Chi and the Academic Peer Counseling Office, offers opportunities for students to participate in workshops, lectures, field trips, professional meetings, and social activities. Membership in SPA provides an opportunity for students to explore their own interests in psychology and to practice leadership skills. For students developing resumes for employment or applications for graduate school, it is an opportunity to highlight one's unique accomplishments. For additional information, contact Dr. Susan Walch at 850-474-2273.

Psi Chi Honor Society

Psi Chi, the National Honor Society for Psychology, is an affiliate of the American Psychological Association and the Association of College Honor Societies. It has chapters on more than 600 senior college and university campuses across the country. Traditionally, the purpose of Psi Chi is twofold: 1) to provide academic prestige to its initiates by being a member, and 2) (probably most important) to encourage, stimulate, and maintain excellence in scholarship of its individual members, thereby advancing the science of psychology.

For additional information contact: Dr. Susan Walch at 850-474-2273. Applications for membership in Psi Chi are available in the School of Psychological and Behavioral Sciences main office, or online at the national Psi Chi website. The lifetime membership fee of $55 should be submitted with application. Fees can be submitted in check or money order only, and can be turned in at meetings or to the lock box (via Diana Robinson, Coordinator, or other office staff) in the School of Psychological and Behavioral Sciences office, 2nd floor building 41.

Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM)

The UWF student chapter of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) was organized in 1979 by members of the Industrial-Organizational (I-O) Psychology program. Its stated purposes are to promote an interest in various areas related to human resources (HR), to study job opportunities in these areas, and to encourage the establishment of contacts with local HR professionals. Student SHRM Chapter activities include field trips to local area businesses and industries, "shadowing" of HR professionals, guest lectures and discussions with people knowledgeable in the field of HR, and joint meetings with the Greater Pensacola SHRM Chapter. I-O students, MBA students who wish to emphasize HR development areas, or undergraduates with HR interests are all encouraged to join. There are no dues for membership in the student chapter.

Students may also join the National Student Society for Human Resource Management by completing a membership form with the endorsement of the Chapter Advisor (Dr. Sherry Schneider) and paying dues. Membership in the National SHRM organization includes subscriptions to the HR Magazine and the organization's national newspaper, as well as many other benefits such as eligibility for scholarships and attendance at state and national conventions.

Finally, students may join the local professional chapter of SHRM by completing a membership application and paying dues. Membership entitles the student to discounted meals at the monthly chapter meetings where students can network with area HR professionals and learn from luncheon talks by invited speakers. The local chapter is an excellent place to meet professionals who can share information about their work. It can also provide opportunities for practicums, internships, or part-time employment.