FRANCES JAMNICK
reporter

Phi Theta Kappa is an organization that grants access to scholarships, helps students gain connections and other achievements for having good grades and being an active member.

Mary Maturo, vice president of PTK’s TR chapter, said she first joined her second year. Like many others, she described her first months as not being entirely involved with the campus at first.

After she was inducted into the NW chapter, she switched to taking classes atTR and joined its PTK chapter. She said she began to flourish in a new close-knit community environment. After a year of serving as a member, she was elected into her current position last summer.

“I want to be that sibling for students who want to go far, and being vice president means that I have the knowledge and experience to do so,” Maturo said.

Joining any organization requires having the time and building up knowledge and experience to create an atmosphere that shows what any organization is about, she said. Maturo explained that being in Phi Theta Kappa has taught her a lot.

“I have learned the value of leadership, knowledge, selflessness and work ethic,” she said. “Plus, it’s nice to be rewarded for your achievements.”

The requirements for PTK vary based on GPA and the different chapters on various campuses. The general requirements for the TR chapter, for example, include having a 3.5 GPA or above for at least 12 credit hours. Most chapters also require that members maintain a 3.0 GPA to stay active.

When the general requirements are met, a student will receive an invitation and an application form to join.

Peter Doas, an adviser for PTK’s NW chapter, said he sees how the organization has helped students and that PTK membership opens opportunities for students who wish to transfer.

“They can earn financial benefits, such as scholarships, and can work with others at TCC or other colleges to collaborate on various projects,” he said.

Even the connections made in organizations such as these can lead to recommendations for transferring. However, it is essential to meet the grade requirement and be an active member for at least part of the time, Doas said.

“Each campus at TCC has its own chapter of PTK, and some variation exists with the requirements within each chapter,” he said.

Accomplishing these requirements grants access to potential scholarships.

Nytrell Morrison, treasurer and social media ambassador for the TR chapter described it as “a multipurpose organization” that provides benefits like scholarships and personal growth opportunities.

Morrison said PTK students can pick up skills from webinars or conferences that give guidance and knowledge on topics both in and out of school.

“The things we struggle and have a hard time with, PTK can offer help, such as financial responsibility, time management, dealing with personal issues such as depression, anxiety,” Morrison said.

“Through PTK, they offer webinars, workshops, conferences, and much more beyond scholarships.”