Session: Successful Student Chapters:

The Northeastern University Student Affiliates of the American Chemical Society (NUSAACS) has innovated new ways to maintain and strengthen the bonds between our members in the face of the ongoing pandemic that has reshaped academic and collegiate life. Professional experience is at the forefront of Northeastern University’s undergraduate curriculum, with our co-op program providing unparalleled professional experience to its students; likewise, the NUSAACS chapter has continued to support members’ professional development by curating events that allow for exposure to chemistry beyond the classroom, whether it be through speakers from the community or its own members. Although many of our functions can no longer occur in-person, the chapter has continued its commitment to providing service to our community. We have developed new, creative ways to connect through virtual volunteering events, which have allowed members to grow personally and professionally in the field of chemistry and beyond. We also successfully ran a merchandise fundraiser, providing students and faculty with new sweatshirts and mugs to show off their chemistry pride. Finally, and most importantly this year, the NUSAACS chapter has furthered its efforts to foster community. We have strengthened our peer mentorship program and, although our traditional group events may no longer be possible, the chapter has found new ways to build relationships between our membership, such as virtual game nights, baking nights, trivia nights, and movie nights. Just as professional and personal connectivity has always been an important and especially difficult element of undergraduate education, the NUSAACS chapter has continued its work to develop and empower its community.

Joseph Depasquale

Appearances