Gamma Theta Upsilon Rating, Reviews and Requirements. Is it worth it?

What are the requirements to be in Gamma Theta Upsilon?

In keeping with the Society's Specialized Scholarship classification, initiates must have completed the equivalent of three semesters of college coursework, a minimum of three courses in geography with a 3.3 GPA (on the 4.0 scale) in those courses, and rank in the top 35% of their class (a 3.3 GPA can be used as a substitute for the ranking if the institution does not calculate rankings). Please note that regular members do not have to be currently enrolled, nor must they be geography majors.

What is the history of Gamma Theta Upsilon? 

Gamma Theta Upsilon (GTU) is an international honor society in geography. Gamma Theta Upsilon was founded in 1928 and became a national organization in 1931. Members of GTU have met academic requirements and share a background and interest in geography. GTU chapter activities support geography knowledge and awareness. 

What are the key benefits of being a member of Gamma Theta Upsilon? 

• Most chapters organize and host speakers, campus-wide programs, field trips, and social events. Chapter members participate in service functions
• Members can engage in numerous extra-curricular activities.
• Membership provides a network that helps students become better acquainted with other geography students and faculty.
• Members can improve their expertise in the field of geography by learning things not normally covered in the classroom.
• Members are eligible to apply for a variety of Gamma Theta Upsilon scholarships.
• Membership in an academic honor society is evidence of your dedication to and competency in your potential career field. Some employers give hiring preference or a higher starting salary to honor society members.
• Ask your local chapter officers or GTU faculty sponsor for information on membership procedures and the many benefits of joining Gamma Theta Upsilon

Based on the information, here is our review:

Our first observation is: that this is the first Geography based society we’ve seen and it stands out from the rest in that aspect.

Our second observation was: while this is for students with a general interest in Geography, students do not have to be enrolled in that major to be a member. 

Our third observation was: one of the benefits listed is that “Members can improve their expertise in the field of geography by learning things not normally covered in the classroom.” This shows the society is heavy interest-based society rather than a solely academic one.