Last month, I received an e-mail informing me that I am invited to become a potential member of Gamma Beta Phi Honor Society.  I was thrilled because I never expected to become a member of an honor society or any other organization this semester. Being chosen to be a part of such prestigious organization is quite big deal to me.

Gamma Beta Phi promotes education and provides community service to their colleges and communities. The Society has made a major impact all across America. In recent years, The Gamma Beta Phi Society has collected thousands of books for St. Jude Children’s Hospital, six thousand pairs of shoes for citizens of Iraq, collected thousands of hats for the Heavenly Hats Foundation, thousands of letters to the service men and woman onboard the USS Kitty Hawk, and bought an Ark for Heifer International. After being inducted, these were my thoughts:

1. It did not seem as a big deal or as something important – back in American Samoa, being inducted to the National Honor Society or Phi Theta Kappa in American Samoa Community College (ASCC) is such a big deal especially for parents! I remember in high school, my classmates and I who were members of the NHS were called the “Royals” because we have uniforms (gold and royal blue).
2. The induction is very different – The GBP induction was short, sweet, and simple while my  PTK induction back in American Samoa was long, organized, and special. With the GBP induction, we didn’t need to rehearse. I think it’s because there were hundreds of us while in American Samoa, the inductees are usually between 15-20. We were just encouraged to attend the induction in semi-formal attire. On the other hand, PTK induction requires us to attend the induction, rehearsals, and wear a uniform.
3. I missed my family – During my previous inductions, I always have a family member present. This time, it was only my boyfriend (who I consider my home too). I greatly missed having that “support” even though I know that they constantly support me and they are proud of me. I feel that attending the induction with my family makes it more meaningful because this is for them and I am able to show them my dedication and hard work.

Indeed, being inducted to GBP or any honor society is still a big deal for me because it is a reminder of my family’s love and support for me.