subject: The Reasons for Joining This or That Alumni Association [print this page] The Reasons for Joining This or That Alumni Association
To Join or Not to Join an Alumni Union?
Some of postgraduates are really happy to keep in touch with their former group mates and university from the very beginning. They want to help and support their alma mater and current students. Some of them were awarded with scholarships which changed their lives and gave a chance to gain a good education. As a result they found a desirable workplace and are full of gratitude and desire to help.
Others do not see any advantages in joining a postgraduates union. Especially taking into account, that membership fees may be very high. They may be annual or life lasting but still enough substantial. On the other hand, some of postgraduates do not see any reason to pay after the graduation. Education is very expensive and they think they have already given enough money.
Benefits of Membership
But one should remember that an organization cannot make money out of nothing. It needs funds and donations in order to exist and help. All alumni union activities cost a considerable amount of money. Alumni associations organize seminars, business trainings, lectures, supportive programs for their members, gather funds for scholarships and fulfill many other important activities. Of course, they have to pay for it.
Besides, there are other benefits. Alumni have a wide circle of interests and organize various meetings devoted to this or that hobby. It may be a golf play, or husky sport, various lectures, etc. Boredom vanishes as soon as alumni meetings begin.
Very often alumni membership gives some money back. Alumni have various discounts to different shops, cafes, etc. Very often they are offered to members of this or that alumni association by other alumni, who own the establishment. Also there may be such services as free pass to a library or tennis club, free career search programs, and others.
