sample honor society essay

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National Honor Society (NHS) Essay Examples & Expert Advice

July 8, 2023

Every year, high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors write National Honor Society essays in the hopes of becoming a member. It’s certainly an admirable recognition. Joining the ranks means partaking in an interscholastic tradition alongside future movers and shakers. Past National Honor Society (NHS) members have consisted of Olympians, astronauts, senators, neurosurgeons, Nobel prize winners, Navy admirals, and more. Some of the more celebrity-famous NHS-ers include journalist Katie Couric, writer, and comedian Tina Fey, and poet Robert Warren Penn. Former first lady Michelle Obama, of course. Even Taylor Swift joined the NHS in high school. You can bet her songwriting skills came in handy for the National Honor Society essay. Intimidated? Don’t be. View our NHS essay example below as well as our more general advice for the National Honor Society essay.

Before composing your own NHS essay, you may want to ask yourself, “Why should I join NHS ?” Your answer to this question will help determine if, and how, you should craft a relevant NHS essay.

The NHS in Brief

It all began with a high school principal in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, who founded the National Honor Society in 1921. Today, this hundred-and-two-year-old society boasts local chapters in all 50 U.S. states and territories. It also has chapters in American and international schools abroad. Membership, open to select high school students, can open doors to interesting service and leadership opportunities. In fact, service and leadership form the cornerstone of NHS.

The one million plus students who participate in the NHS yearly have service and leadership in common. That’s because the NHS requires demonstrated community service, and demonstrated leadership. It also requires a GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (though this number varies depending on the chapter) and demonstrated good character. You’ll want to check your local chapter’s specific guidelines when beginning the NHS application.

Other reasons to join the NHS include gaining access to the NHS network, an array of college planning tools, and the chance to apply for hefty scholarships. These perks naturally make for a competitive acceptance rate. So, the best way to make your application stand out involves crafting a stunning NHS essay. Here’s how.

Quick Tips for Drafting the National Honor Society Essay

1) Structure your NHS essay around the NHS Pillars: Scholarship, Service, Leadership, and Character. A high GPA acts as an indicator of your “scholarship”, or dedication to academia. This pillar must appear in your essay as well, in the form of impeccable writing skills. Demonstrate your service and leadership through the content of your essay. In other words, service and leadership form the action, or plot, of your essay. Finally, infuse your character throughout your essay, by showing how your behavior indicates your values and integrity.

2) Write from your heart, and make your NHS essay personal. The most memorable essays rely on a sincere writing voice and contain personal details. But note that by “personal,” I don’t mean you must share your deepest secrets. Rather, ground an event in your own experience by incorporating your emotions, thoughts, and sensations. This will make your essay unique to you.

3) Weave together a story; don’t make a list. As you tell your story, pull from your strongest experiences. Perhaps you have a handful of leadership and service roles. Pick only a few that say something about your interests and personality, and develop your story by threading these ideas together. While a list might look impressive, a story will come across as better crafted and more captivating. If, however, none of your service activities seem significant enough to single out and describe on their own, weave these activities together through a theme. For example, the theme could be how you overcame shyness to lead.

Quick Tips for Drafting the National Honor Society Essay, Continued

4) Mind your audience. In this case, your audience is your school’s faculty member who’s taken on the role of chapter adviser. You may want to meet with them ahead of time to let them know you’re applying. This initiative on your part will look impressive. Moreover, you can ask in person what they look for in an NHS essay. Certainly, they’ll want to know how you stand out from the other applicants. So, you’ll also want to keep your competition in mind. As with college application essays, the tone of your NHS essay should be polite, formal, and charismatic.

5) Brainstorm, draft, edit, and repeat. A National Honor Society essay isn’t written overnight. Once you have your initial ideas down on paper, return to the page for a round of editing. Ask yourself where you can expand and where you sound redundant. Look for common threads and themes to enhance. Create transition sentences between paragraphs. Revise your conclusion. Next, show your essay to someone you trust. Their feedback will indicate where your essay excels and where you need to improve.

NHS Essay Example

My grandmother, or Ma-Maw , was the kind of generous busybody who made six different pies for her granddaughters’ birthdays. She invited everyone on the block, so nothing went to waste. Once, when we both went to shovel up the last slice of pie, she laughed, and said, “ noblesse oblige .” She often spoke French, a Louisiana French foreign yet familiar to me. I didn’t think to ask what she’d meant. Did she think I was noble? Was that why I got to scarf down the last of the cherry pie?

Ma-Maw died the summer before I entered high school. I missed her terribly, long after my parents sold her house. Receiving her redirected mail felt like a blow. So many newsletters from Friends of the New Orleans Public Library! Since I loved books as much as Ma-Maw, I opened these up. Inside, I read about a partnership program, Start the Adventure in Reading (STAIR). They needed in-person volunteers to tutor second- and third-graders in reading.

Before I knew it, I was cracking open vocabulary books twice a week with a kid named Harper. When I wasn’t tutoring, I was lesson planning, going over Harper’s writing journal, and scouring shelves for more early reader books. This got me thinking about literacy in New Orleans. 39% of high school students my age have the reading level of a 5 th grader—or worse. Harper lived in a part of town that didn’t even have bookstores. Would she keep up her reading once the tutoring was over, despite the odds? I also thought about representation and accessibility. If Harper had more books about people like her, and if those books were all over the place, and easy to take home, would things change?

NHS Essay Example, Continued

Due to this newfound interest in advocating for literacy, I decided to build a Free Little Library (FLL). To do so, I needed help. That spring, I founded a school club, Reading the World, and convinced 8 members to join. Together, we dismantled one of Ma-Maw’s kitchen cabinets and incorporated other used materials to build an upcycled stand that could fit 20 books.

Next, we got in touch with the program Read for Color, which helps make BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and other diverse and marginalized voices heard. I believe their initiative parallels our own, which is to provide a diversity of voices through language itself. Our FLL features books in Cajun French and Creole and works in translation. With permission, we installed the FLL outside Ma-Maw’s old home. For its inauguration, our club invited the local organizations Youth Empowerment Project, One Book One New Orleans, and Read in Color. We plan to collaborate with these groups next year.

Now a sophomore, I’ve continued literacy advocacy by volunteering at Alliance Française events. This has given me new ideas about how to run Reading the World. I’ve added monthly book club events. Furthermore, every club member tutors a STAIR student. Finally, we’ll visit local senior homes at Thanksgiving and Christmas and read to the residents.

Ma-Maw would be happy to hear I won the L’Union Française’s Prix d’Excellence this year. She’d be even more thrilled to see how I’ve shared her love of reading with my community. Now I understand noblesse oblige : if you believe you are someone of noble character, then you must act accordingly. This NHS motto was easy for Ma-Maw to follow. She gave everything and led by example. I plan to follow in her footsteps. It would be an immense honor to do so through the National Honor Society.

NHS Essay Example, Dissected

This National Honor Society essay succeeds for many reasons. First, the student structures her essay around the theme of language and literacy. (Perhaps she also captains her softball team and volunteers for the Red Cross. But the student has correctly judged that these elements would distract from her story.) Rather than list her achievements and service, the student builds every element into a journey. It has a beginning, a middle, and an end. It shows how the student evolved to be someone who wants to make a difference. The ending completes the story by circling back to the beginning, through the idea of “noblesse oblige.” The student also manages to state clearly her thesis: she deserves acceptance into the National Honor Society.

This student’s story also centers around an emotional current, that of the student’s grandmother. The reader wants to invest in the story more because of this emotional aspect. Literacy is clearly not a random activity, but a meaningful one for the student. Including a role model allows the student to avoid bragging by transferring her praise to her grandmother.

Finally, the tone of the essay is formal (“It would be an immense honor”). Meanwhile, the unique voice of the student comes through (“We both went to shovel up the last slice of pie”). She accurately cites the names of the organizations she’s involved with and uses specificity (such as her grandmother’s kitchen cabinets) to draw the reader in.

Finished Your National Honor Society Essay?

Hopefully, you found our NHS essay example to be helpful. Now, feel free to check out our list of academic contests for more ways to boost your academic profile.

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Kaylen Baker

With a BA in Literary Studies from Middlebury College, an MFA in Fiction from Columbia University, and a Master’s in Translation from Université Paris 8 Vincennes-Saint-Denis, Kaylen has been working with students on their writing for over five years. Previously, Kaylen taught a fiction course for high school students as part of Columbia Artists/Teachers, and served as an English Language Assistant for the French National Department of Education. Kaylen is an experienced writer/translator whose work has been featured in Los Angeles Review, Hybrid, San Francisco Bay Guardian, France Today, and Honolulu Weekly, among others.

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Guide To Writing The National Honor Society Essay + Examples

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Head of programs and lead admissions expert, table of contents, step one: ask for nhs essay examples , step two: focus on each of the membership pillars, step three: the art of bragging, step four: edit, step five: the best national honor society essay, tips for writing your nhs essay, final thoughts , additional resources:.

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If you are starting to think about college applications , you have likely heard about extracurricular activities a time or two. Participation in extracurricular activities like clubs, sports, and internships can help pave the way for college acceptance. One great club to join if you’re looking to stand out academically is the National Honor Society (NHS). 

If your school has an active National Honor Society chapter, you will need to apply to become a member. Each active chapter must have a published description of their selection procedure in an official school publication, so learning the steps you need to take shouldn’t be hard. If you are having a hard time finding information about your chapter, you can use the online Chapter Finder tool or check with your school’s NHS advisor or school administration. 

It’s likely that your application will require a National Honor Society essay in addition to scholarship requirements (like a specific GPA), community service, leadership experiences, and demonstrated good character. These requirements follow the pillars of membership for the NHS. If you are gearing up to write your essay, you have come to the right place. Here is everything you need to know about writing the best National Honor Society Essay. 

Video: Honor Society Essay: Top Tips for Writing

Your chapter advisor may have a general essay prompt. This can cause many students to overthink or stress over their essays. By asking for NHS essay examples, you can get a better idea of what your chapter advisor is looking for. You can better understand the tone, style, length, and general content needed.

However, if your chapter advisor will not offer example NHS essays, no worries. Here is a sample of a student essay from Olathe West High School: 

Being a member of the National Honors Society is a great honor. I believe that I not only exude leadership in an academic setting, but beyond that as well. One reason I would be a great representative of this institution is because of my grit and determination. I have worked so incredibly hard to earn the opportunity to even be considered for the National Honors Society. Although I had to overcome many obstacles, the concept of perseverance was especially important throughout the journey. 

Another quality I can speak to is my positive attitude. I have always tried to make it a priority to exemplify a sense of profitableness in the midst of both success, and hardship. There are many qualities that make up a good leader, and I hope that I can set an example for others. However, one of my greatest weaknesses as a leader is my lack of ability to implement my thoughts into action. I have the tendency to simply “go with the flow” or remain quiet. 

Furthermore, I also tend to do things all at once, instead of spreading things out. This can result in unneeded stress and anxiety. Overall, I definitely have my strengths and weaknesses as a leader. I hope that by being a part of opportunities that provide me with a role of leadership, I will gain more strengths, and learn how to cope with my weaknesses. 

It is important to keep in mind that this is only one of many NHS essay examples . It may not match the prompt of your specific chapter. As always, it’s important to use your own words and let any example NHS essays only be used to guide your work.

In your essay, it’s also likely the prompt will ask you to address how you portray the four membership pillars. 

Scholarship 

Scholarship is the first of the four pillars. NHS national policy requires each chapter to set a cumulative GPA requirement. The minimum is a 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Although this is proven through your transcripts, you can refer to your GPA in your essay. Many NHS essay examples also address how their grades show their grit and determination to go above and beyond in school and their everyday life. 

The service pillar refers to voluntary contributions you have made without compensation. Service can reference actions for both school and your community. For example, service can be participation in an event like a bake sale or community clean-up day. 

In your essay, it’s important to discuss what contributions you made, any accolades, and how this opportunity impacted you. Example NHS essays reference service in ways that may explain how volunteering at a local pet shelter, homeless shelter, or suicide hotline has helped the individual recognize needs in the community. It can also help create self-confidence, and leadership skills, and helps you meet others. Be sure you have written and signed documentation for any service projects you reference in your essay and application.  

The third pillar, Leadership, is defined by positions, roles, or skills in this area. You can identify specific leadership skills you possess such as good communication, strategic thinking, positivity, or time management. You can also address specific situations in which you have demonstrated successful leadership. 

The final pillar, character, is about showing your high standards of honesty and reliability. You will need to demonstrate and explain how you are courteous and respectful of others. Your advisor may access your disciplinary records, so be sure to openly address any issues and identify how you have grown and learned from them. 

For example, if you were suspended your Freshman year, this may not mean you are automatically denied. Use this experience as a learning opportunity and explain how it changed you for the better.  

One important thing to learn throughout your high school career is the art of bragging. When you apply for college, jobs, scholarships, clubs, and beyond you need to humbly express your positive qualities, values, and experiences. It’s important to use these opportunities to highlight your accomplishments. If you are writing something that feels a little “braggy”, there are a few things you can do to improve your statement. 

First, it’s most important, to be honest. Don’t say that your canned foods drive donated the most food in the state if it isn’t true. It’s great to list statistics, numbers, or facts, but only if they’re accurate. 

It’s also important to consider your tone. If you feel your statement is a bit dramatic, it probably is. Consider tying your success to a value instead. For example, instead of saying you are the Captain of the Lacrosse Team and have led the team to a championship, start by discussing your journey in leadership – after a few challenging games you learned better communication and how to confront mistakes which helped you lead the team to a winning season. This shows the reader that you are developing important skills and are willing to work hard for your accomplishments. 

Learning to edit your essays is an essential and necessary skill. After you complete your first draft, go back to the essay prompt. Highlight exactly what it is asking you to do. Then, read through your essay and identify the areas in which you answer the question(s) in the prompt. If there is something you are missing, you can easily add it. Then read your essay with a fine tooth comb to ensure there are no spelling or grammar errors. You can also take another look at any NHS essay examples and be sure your tone and response fit. 

Pro Tip: If your NHS chapter is known for being selective, it may be beneficial to ask a friend, parent, or your English teacher to look over your essay. They can help to ensure you have met and exceeded the guidelines. 

If you follow each of these steps you can feel confident you are submitting the best National Honor Society Essay. Be sure to check for important deadlines as well as how the essay needs to be turned in. As obvious as it may seem, a late essay or one sent to the wrong email address may be disqualified. Your NHS chapter may only accept applications at certain times of the year so it’s important to stay in the loop and on top of any deadlines. Some chapters may also require a fee or other documentation. 

NHS Essay Examples: Crafting the Perfect Essay

Video: How to Write a National Honor Society Essay

Writing an essay for the National Honor Society (NHS) can be a daunting task. It’s your chance to showcase your achievements, leadership skills, and commitment to service. But don’t worry, I’ve got your back! Here are some stellar examples to inspire your own NHS essay.

Highlighting Leadership and Service Example

Introduction: From organizing community clean-ups to leading my school's student council, I have always believed in the power of collective effort to bring about positive change. As a nominee for the National Honor Society, I am eager to continue my journey of leadership and service, guided by the principles that define the NHS.

Leadership: Leadership, to me, is not just about holding a title but about inspiring and motivating others. As the president of the student council, I initiated a mentorship program that paired upperclassmen with freshmen to help them navigate high school life. This program not only improved the freshmen's academic performance but also fostered a sense of community and belonging. Leading this initiative taught me the importance of empathy, organization, and the impact of small acts of guidance.

Service: Service has been a cornerstone of my personal philosophy. Volunteering at the local food bank has opened my eyes to the pressing issues of food insecurity in our community. I organized a series of food drives, which collected over 2,000 pounds of food in six months. Through these efforts, I learned the value of perseverance and the profound impact that dedicated service can have on individuals' lives.

Conclusion: Being a part of the National Honor Society would be an incredible honor. It would allow me to expand my efforts in leadership and service, and collaborate with like-minded individuals to make a broader impact. I am committed to upholding the values of the NHS and contributing positively to both my school and community.

Emphasizing Academic Excellence and Character Sample

Introduction: Academic excellence and strong character are the pillars upon which I have built my high school career. As a prospective member of the National Honor Society, I am excited to bring my dedication and integrity to a community of scholars who share my values.

Academic Excellence: Academics have always been a priority for me, not just for the grades, but for the joy of learning and discovery. My commitment to academic excellence is reflected in my 4.0 GPA and my involvement in Advanced Placement courses. I believe that education is a lifelong journey, and I strive to inspire my peers to approach learning with the same enthusiasm and curiosity.

Character: Character is what defines us when nobody's watching. I pride myself on being a person of integrity and kindness. Whether it’s standing up against bullying or offering support to a classmate in need, I consistently strive to do the right thing. My participation in the school's peer mediation program has equipped me with the skills to resolve conflicts peacefully and foster a more inclusive environment.

Conclusion: The National Honor Society represents a unique opportunity to continue growing as a leader and a scholar. I am eager to contribute my academic prowess and unwavering character to the NHS, and I look forward to collaborating with fellow members to uphold the society’s esteemed values.

Other Samples:

NHS Essay Example 1

From the moment I stepped into high school, I knew I wanted to make a difference. Joining the National Honor Society (NHS) represents the pinnacle of that goal. It is not just about academic achievement; it is about being a beacon of leadership, service, and character.

My journey began in freshman year when I joined the student council. I quickly took on leadership roles, including serving as vice president during my junior year. My most notable project was organizing a charity drive for a local children's hospital, which successfully raised over $5,000 in donations. This experience taught me the importance of community and the power of collective effort.

Academically, I have always challenged myself to strive for excellence. Enrolling in Advanced Placement courses in subjects like Chemistry, Calculus, and Literature has pushed me to expand my knowledge and critical thinking skills. Maintaining a 4.0 GPA while balancing extracurricular activities has been demanding but rewarding. My academic endeavors are fueled by a genuine curiosity and a desire to understand the world better.

Service is a core value I hold dear. I have dedicated numerous hours to volunteering at the local food pantry, where I help organize and distribute food to those in need. Additionally, I mentor younger students in our school's peer tutoring program. Watching them grow and succeed is incredibly fulfilling, and it reinforces my belief in the impact one can have through service.

Character and integrity are principles I live by daily. I have participated in my school's ethical leadership program, where we engage in discussions and activities centered on making ethical decisions and fostering a positive school environment. These experiences have honed my ability to navigate complex situations with honesty and respect.

The National Honor Society embodies the ideals I strive for: scholarship, leadership, service, and character. As a member, I hope to continue my journey of personal and academic growth, inspiring others to achieve their best and contribute positively to our community. I am eager to collaborate with like-minded peers and take on new challenges that will prepare me for future endeavors.

In conclusion, I am honored to be considered for membership in the National Honor Society. I believe my dedication to academics, commitment to service, and strong character align with the values of the NHS. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to this esteemed organization and continue my journey of making a meaningful impact. Thank you for considering my application.

NHS Essay Example 2

Since my earliest days in school, I have been driven by a passion for understanding society and making a positive impact. The National Honor Society (NHS) represents an ideal opportunity to expand this passion, combining my dedication to academics and community service with leadership and character.

My interest in societal issues has been a cornerstone of my high school experience. As president of the Social Justice Club, I have organized numerous events aimed at raising awareness about issues such as racial equality, gender rights, and environmental sustainability. One of our most successful projects was a community-wide seminar on climate change, which brought together local activists, students, and educators to discuss actionable steps for a greener future. This experience has deepened my understanding of social issues and the importance of advocacy.

Academically, I have always sought to challenge myself. Enrolling in Advanced Placement courses in History, Sociology, and Government has broadened my perspective on the complexities of society. Maintaining a 3.8 GPA while engaging in these demanding courses has been a testament to my commitment to academic excellence. My research paper on the impact of social media on political polarization was recognized at the state level, highlighting my ability to conduct thorough and impactful research.

Service is a fundamental aspect of my life. Volunteering at the local community center, I have been involved in organizing after-school programs for children from low-income families. These programs provide educational support and recreational activities, aiming to create a nurturing environment for personal and academic growth. Additionally, I have participated in food drives and fundraising events for various social causes, reinforcing my belief in the power of community service.

Leadership is another area where I have sought to make a difference. As captain of the debate team, I have guided my peers through rigorous preparations for competitions, fostering a spirit of teamwork and perseverance. This role has not only improved my public speaking and critical thinking skills but also taught me the value of listening and empathy. Furthermore, I serve as a peer mediator, helping to resolve conflicts and promote a positive school culture.

Character is the bedrock of all my endeavors. Integrity, empathy, and resilience are values that I strive to embody in every aspect of my life. I have been recognized by my teachers and peers for my commitment to these principles, receiving the school's Character Award for two consecutive years. Participation in the Ethics Bowl has further sharpened my ability to navigate complex moral dilemmas and reinforced my dedication to ethical behavior.

The National Honor Society offers a unique platform to further my academic and societal contributions. As a member, I hope to collaborate with like-minded individuals to initiate projects that address pressing social issues and promote academic excellence. I am eager to take on new challenges and continue growing as a leader and scholar.

In conclusion, I am honored to apply for membership in the National Honor Society. My dedication to societal issues, academic achievement, service, and character aligns with the core values of the NHS. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to this esteemed organization and to further my journey of making a positive impact. Thank you for considering my application.

• Be Authentic: Your essay should reflect your true self. Don’t exaggerate your achievements, but do highlight your genuine strengths and experiences.
• Focus on Key Pillars: NHS values leadership, service, character, and scholarship. Make sure your essay touches on each of these areas.
• Use Specific Examples: Instead of vague statements, provide concrete examples of your accomplishments and experiences.
• Show Passion: Let your enthusiasm and commitment shine through your writing. The selection committee wants to see your dedication and drive.
• Edit and Revise: A polished essay is crucial. Proofread your work, and consider asking a teacher or mentor for feedback.

Video: #Transizion National Honor Society: Everything You Need to Know

Being a part of your high school’s NHS chapter offers some great benefits. The NHS national office will send information about programs, activities, and opportunities to your verified student account. The NASSP, the parent organization of the NHS also awards $2 million in scholarships each year. The National Honor Society is a great extracurricular activity and one you definitely want to join.

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, what should i include in my national honor society application essay.

Hey everyone! I'm currently applying to join my school's National Honor Society chapter, and I need to write an essay as part of my application. Can anyone give me some advice on what to include and how to make it unique? Thanks in advance!

When writing your National Honor Society (NHS) application essay, it's important to showcase the four key pillars of the organization: scholarship, service, leadership, and character. As you consider these pillars, think about specific examples from your own experiences that align with each concept, focusing on quality rather than quantity. Here's some advice on how to make your essay unique and compelling:

1. Scholarship: Rather than just listing your academic achievements, elaborate on experiences where your scholarly pursuits led to personal growth or helped others. For example, discuss tutoring sessions you led for classmates in a difficult subject, or mention any projects or research you conducted outside of school that contributed to your academic development.

2. Service: This is the opportunity to highlight your volunteering experiences, but avoid listing every single organization you've helped. Instead, emphasize one or two service activities that you're passionate about and demonstrate the impact you've made through them. Share a brief story that illustrates how your participation in a specific community service project affected you and the community you served.

3. Leadership: Showcasing your ability to take charge and lead others is crucial. Discuss specific instances where you played a leadership role, whether it be within a group project, a sports team, or a club. If possible, highlight the impact your leadership had on others, or explain how acting as a leader helped you cultivate skills you can bring to the NHS chapter.

4. Character: Convey how you've demonstrated strong moral character in your personal and academic life. For this pillar, it's essential to strike the right balance between being humble and showcasing your strengths. Share specific examples of activities or situations where you exemplified traits such as honesty, empathy, perseverance, or kindness.

To make your essay stand out, try to connect your experiences to the mission and values of the NHS. This will demonstrate your understanding of the organization's purpose and show that you have actively reflected on how your qualities align with their expectations.

Lastly, structure your essay effectively. Start with an engaging introduction that outlines the main points of your essay, then dive into the specific examples within each of the four pillars. Conclude your essay by summarizing your experiences and discussing your aspirations to positively contribute to and grow within your school's NHS chapter.

If you're not sure whether your essay is working, remember that CollegeVine offers both free peer essay review and paid reviews by expert college admissions advisors. Sometimes, getting a second set of eyes on your writing can be just the thing that takes it from good to great.

Good luck with your application!

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How to write the National Honor’s Society Essay

Being recognized as a member of the National Honor Society (NHS) is a testament to a student’s academic achievements, leadership, and service in their community. The NHS recognizes outstanding high school students for their dedication and challenges them to develop further. An important component of the application process is the NHS essay, which is an opportunity for candidates to detail their accomplishments and explain how they align with the NHS’s core values. This essay plays a significant role in the selection process, as it allows the applicant to showcase the individual behind the grades and other achievements on paper. This blog post aims to demystify the writing process by providing step-by-step guidance on crafting a strong NHS essay. 

Understanding the NHS Essay

4 pillars of nhs, scholarship, polishing your essay, common mistakes to avoid with the national honor’s society essay, wrapping up.

Before diving into the pillars that form the backbone of the National Honor Society (NHS), it’s crucial to grasp what the NHS essay entails and what it aims to achieve. The NHS essay is more than just a writing sample; it is a narrative that encapsulates your journey, achievements, and the alignment of your personal values with the core principles of the NHS. This essay is your opportunity to communicate directly with the selection committee, offering a glimpse into who you are beyond your academic scores and extracurricular activities. The prompt for the NHS Essay is to detail how you represent the Four Pillars of NHS Membership: Scholarship, Service, Leadership, and Character in 300-500 words. In doing so, here are some key components that are good to include:

Personal Introduction: Begin with a brief introduction of yourself, highlighting your academic and personal background. This sets the stage for a deeper dive into your achievements and how they reflect the NHS values.

Impact and Personal Growth: Discuss the impact of your contributions on your community and personal growth. Reflect on how your actions have made a difference and what you may have learned from them. This will show the selection committee your potential for future leadership and service.

Future Plans and Contributions: Briefly outline how you plan to continue your commitment to the NHS’s principles by contributing both to the organization and to your community. This will underscore your dedication to the NHS’s mission.

Staying Authentic: Your essay should reflect your own authentic voice and perspective. The selection committee is solely interested in understanding who you are as an individual.

Alignment with NHS Values: It is important to explicitly detail how your experiences embody the NHS’s core values of scholarship, leadership, service, and character. Rather than simply listing your accomplishments, delve deeper into how these experiences have shaped you and prepared you to contribute to the NHS while remaining as concise as possible.

When addressing the pillar of Scholarship in your National Honor Society essay, it is important to go further than just listing your academic achievements on paper. This section should detail your personal affinity for learning and intellectual growth. Highlight your areas of curiosity, your passion for gaining knowledge, and how you have been able to apply your knowledge outside of the classroom. Obviously you should discuss any academic awards or recognitions you have received, but also delve into how these accomplishments reflect your attitude towards learning.

In demonstrating Leadership, your writing should detail both formal leadership positions and informal leadership roles you have taken. Leadership is not just about being the head of a club or student organization: it is about influencing others positively, driving initiatives, and setting a good example in your community. Share specific instances where you led by example, overcame challenges, or motivated others toward a goal. Whether it’s captaining a sports team, leading a group project, or taking the initiative in organizing an event, include any instances that highlight your ability to lead.

The Service section of your essay is your chance to show how you have contributed to your community through volunteer work or service projects. Describe the types of service activities you have experience in, the impact these activities had on your community, and any other insights or knowledge you gained in the process. 

Reflecting on Character involves a deep dive into your the ethics and moral principles that guide you. The NHS values members who exhibit a strong character in both their personal and academic lives. Discuss situations where you’ve had to make difficult choices and/or stand up for what you believe in in the face of challenges. Your character is at the center of your personality, so share anecdotes that best illustrate how you personally embody the values the NHS holds dear ( like honesty, respect, and responsibility).

Crafting a strong conclusion for your essay is crucial in reinforcing your case for membership. This final section should serve as a summary of your narrative, reiterating how you align with the NHS’s core values of scholarship, leadership, service, and character. Begin by concisely restating the key experiences and achievements you’ve discussed throughout the essay. Then, synthesize this information and emphasize your readiness to take on the responsibilities of NHS membership. Articulate a clear vision of how you intend to contribute to the NHS, drawing on specific examples from your past experiences to illustrate your capacity for leadership, service, and continued personal and academic growth.

Revision is a vital step in crafting a good NHS essay. It is imperative to revisit your essay with a critical eye, assessing the coherence of your writing and ensuring that each paragraph flows logically and smoothly to the next one. We recommend doing at least two drafts, and the more the merrier. Make sure your essay comprehensively details your achievements and character, and make adjustments to enhance your message’s delivery and effectiveness.

Simply Reiterating Your Resume: One of the most common mistakes is simply listing your academic achievements and other roles as one might on a resume and not delving into the experiences. Your writing should go beyond listing accomplishments, explaining how these experiences have effected you and/or how they might align with the NHS values.

Lack of Personal Reflection: Not including enough personal reflection on how your experiences have contributed to your growth or demonstrated your alignment with NHS values is a missed opportunity to show your unique perspective. Share insights into your personal journey, any challenges overcome, and how these experiences impacted you.

Ignoring the NHS Core Values: Each section of your essay should clearly relate to one or more of the NHS pillars: Scholarship, Leadership, Service, and Character. Failing to explicitly connect your experiences to these values will weaken your essay. Make sure to keep in mind how your experiences and actions embodied these core principles while you are writing.

Overlooking the Importance of Character: While it’s crucial to highlight your leadership, service, and academic achievements, neglecting to adequately address your character and personal ethics is a mistake. The NHS values integrity, honesty, and respect, so be sure to reflect on moments that have shaped your character.

Neglecting the Essay Structure: A well-organized essay that flows logically and linguistically from section to section is essential for clarity and impact. Jumping randomly between topics or cluttering your essay with too much information will confuse readers, and ultimately weaken your essay. Use a clear structure, with each paragraph smoothly transitioning to the next, ensuring your essay is coherent, and in turn, compelling.

Failing to Proofread: Grammar mistakes, typos, and awkward phrasing can distract from the content of your essay and give the impression of carelessness. Take the time to thoroughly proofread your essay, and write multiple drafts. Consider asking a teacher, parent, peer, or other mentor to review it for errors you might have missed.

Not Showing Authenticity: Trying to fit a perceived ideal or exaggerating experiences will come off as insincere. Be authentic in your writing. The NHS values honesty!

In conclusion, when writing your NHS essay, embrace the opportunity to not only detail your accomplishments but to give readers an understanding of what makes you unique. This essay is your stepping stone towards becoming a part of a community that values not just academic excellence, but the development of character and the commitment to making a difference in communities. Through your words, make it clear that you embody 4 central tenets of the NHS, but also document your unique perspective and how you personally will contribute to its mission. If you follow these steps and proofread effectively, you should be well on your way to producing an excellent NHS essay! Good luck!

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National Honor Society Essay Example

The purpose of national honor society essay

The following text will serve as a national honor society essay example and will demonstrate one of the possible ways to write it properly. The main purpose of a national honor society essay sample is to show how to present a candidate and prove that he or she is eligible to join this prestigious organization. Thus, the applicant should address the requirements of the membership, which include personal qualities or academic achievements, such as grade point average and service as well as one’s character or leadership experience. Custom essay has to be well structured and written with clarity like in the national honor society essay paper example, given below. A story, which demonstrates leadership qualities and character of the applicant, will be a brilliant addition. This national honor society essay examples service may be useful as an additional help for applicants to see what kind of information is crucial for successful essay; however, it is also crucial to keep an essay personal and unique. The following text can be used as a national junior honor society application essay example as well.

The national honor society essay example

Being chosen by my teachers and other leaders to be a candidate for membership in the National Honor Society is a great honor for me. It means that I have achieved my goal of demonstrating my determination and willingness to help people and serve the community. I believe that I am able to become a valuable member of the NHS because I am hard working, reliable and I possess all the qualities required by this prestigious organization, such as scholarship, leadership, character, and service abilities.

My academic achievements are the result of my hard work and assurance that my membership in NHS is another step that will enable for me to achieve success and cherish the chances of becoming a leader and thus a worthy role-model for other people. By having a GPA of 3.91 and 3.92 in the 9th and 10th grades, respectively, I have proven to my teachers and myself that I am able to make my dreams come true. One of these dreams is to have an honor to be a part of NHS society. In addition, while in high school I have been taking all honors courses and, as an elementary student, I have participated in many academic competitions such as the Academic Challenge in 6 th and 7 th grade, where my team and I scored the second and first places, respectively.

Apart from studying with dedication and participating in competitions, I also play active role in the life of my school. Since childhood, I had a chance to develop my leadership and organizational skills through sports and had my school team win many competitions. My school is one of the places where my leadership qualities are valued as I often become a head of many activities, such as staging plays, organizing shows and school trips with my teachers. Being a leader gives me the opportunity to work in a team and consider my peers’ ideas to make our plans creative and enjoyable for everyone. My personal traits help me to gain trust and respect of my peers as they believe me to be a positive, open-minded and reliable person. I have learned to solve problems and conflicts thanks to this great experience of leadership, and I am always ready to assist my peers when it is needed.

The skills mentioned above can be useful not only at school, but also in the community, where I always try to take an active part. For example, each year I and my parents take a trip around all the hospitals, where we give patients flowers and gifts and just spend quality time with them. This has been a tradition since my childhood, and I am sure to keep it when I have my own family. I think that it is my duty as a member of my community to help and be an uplifting power and example for others, so that our society becomes what we want it to be.

I believe that with my skills and abilities I will be able to contribute to the society most effectively and reach my full potential in helping others. My academic achievements serve as a proof that my personal qualities and dedication will help me to develop character needed to serve and meet all the expectations of NHS to the fullest extent.

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