Preprofessional Activities

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Regional & National Conferences


Student-Level Professional Memberships

Many professional associations in psychology have reduced-cost student memberships. Membership is an indication that a student is serious about his/her chosen field. Members often receive monthly or quarterly newsletters discussing critical issues in the field and upcoming events and conferences. Additionally, membership can be a means of obtaining reduced rates on journal subscriptions and conference registration fees. The following associations are recommended:
 

New England Psychological Association (NEPA)
 

Eastern Psychological Association (EPA)
 

American Psychological Association (APA)
 

The Society for Research in Child Development (SRCD)

Ask faculty members for information on applying. Many require that an active member recommend (sign the form) students for membership.

 

The Massachusetts Public Education System of Higher Education Conference on Undergraduate Research, Scholarly, Creative, and Public Service Activities

In the late 90's, the sponsors of the Honors conference expanded participation opportunities to all undergraduate scholars in the Commonwealth. Abstracts are submitted to the FSC committee in mid-Spring for stage 1 review. Final reviews are completed by the statewide committee. Submissions may represent a variety of formats, from artistic performances to research poster presentations. Psychology students whose research papers are accepted typically prepare poster presentations. The conference takes place on a Friday in late April or early May in downtown Boston.

 

Regional & National Professional Conferences

Students who conduct quality research are strongly encouraged to submit their papers for presentation at conferences. The Undergraduate Conference is a good starting place. However, with faculty sponsorship, submission to professional-level conferences is also possible. Poster formats are recommended. Conferences to consider seriously are:

NEPA

Hosting institutions are usually within an hour’s drive. The submission date is in mid- Spring. The conference date is mid-Fall.

EPA

Hosting institutions are usually within a day’s drive (east coast). The submission date is mid-Fall. The conference date is early Spring.

SRCD

Hosting institution is most often in a major US city. The submission date is late Summer. The conference date is in early Spring.

APA

Hosting institution is most often in a major city in North America. The submission date is late-Fall. The conference date is in August.

The psychology department often awards student presenters, who must travel outside the immediate area, a small research award ($25-$100) to cover some expenses. The psychology club may also approach the student government for additional funds. This must be done early in the Fall, before monies are depleted.

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