The Society of Sigma Gamma Epsilon was established to recognize scholarship and professionalism in the Earth Sciences. Its objectives are the scholastic, scientific and professional advancement of its members.
Additionally, the Society serves as an extension of friendship and assistance among colleges and universities devoted to the advancement of the Earth Sciences.
The Society was founded on March 30, 1915, at The University of Kansas. Nearly 200 chapters throughout the United States have been installed since 1915. Government of the Society is by student members and the ultimate legislative authority is vested in a National Convention held every two years. It is composed of one student delegate from each chapter and the seven national officers who are faculty members.
Any person in any branch of the Earth Sciences who has completed the following qualifies for this membership:
At least 10 semester hours or 15 quarter hours in Earth Science courses
Maintained a minimum 3.0 G.P.A. (on a 4.0 system) in all Earth Science courses
Has an overall G.P.A. of 2.67 in all college courses
Inform any officer or the advisor of your department's chapter to join. They can propose you for membership. Initiation of new members is typically held both fall and spring semesters.
Listing a membership in Sigma Gamma Epsilon on a resume (or the wearing of a member's pin) tells a prospective employer or a colleague that you are:
Members serve their departments in a number of ways such as organizing field trips, tutoring, arranging displays, etc.
Many chapters have money-raising activities to obtain funds to use for scholarships and awards. These chapters also use funds raised to purchase items needed for student use or to assist the department in other ways.
Members of Sigma Gamma Epsilon are encouraged to submit articles to the Society's professional journal, The Compass, as it provides the opportunity to share your research with the Society. The Compass contains student papers and articles by practicing earth scientists in addition to news and notes about the Society.
Sigma Gamma Epsilon members are entitled to GSA-member rates for registration at national and regional meetings and for purchase of GSA publications.
A one-time initiation fee of $25.00 is charged. You are always a member of the Society once initiated. However, while you are a student. you pay annual National Dues of $15.00 plus any local chapter dues.
You may become an Active Alumni Member by a payment of $15.00 per year to the National Office or a single fee of $175.00 for a lifetime membership after graduating.