Who can join the Rutgers Student Subunit of the American Fisheries Society?
Membership is limited to current Rutgers undergraduate and graduate students who are interested in fisheries.
Do I have to pay dues in order to join the Rutgers Student Subunit?
No, we do not collect any membership dues.
How do I become a member of the Rutgers Student Subunit?
If you are interested in becoming a Subunit member send an email to rutgersafs@gmail.com with your full name and major/program of study at Rutgers and we will add you to our roster and email list. You can also join the Subunit at our meetings on the New Brunswick campus during the fall and spring semesters.
How does the Rutgers Student Subunit fit into the hierarchy of the American Fisheries Society?
Within the American Fisheries Society (National Society) there are four Divisions, of which we are part of the Northeastern Division. Within each Division there are Chapters and we are housed within the Mid-Atlantic Chapter. Within each Chapter are the Student Subunits. The Rutgers Student Subunit is one of three Subunits in the Mid-Atlantic Chapter of the American Fisheries Society. Additionally, within the National Society there are Sections based on different topics of interest to fisheries professionals which you can choose to join when you become a National Society member.
If I join the Rutgers Student Subunit does this mean I am also a member of the National Society, Division, and Chapter?
No, you must sign up separately to be a member of the National Society and Chapter. National Society members automatically become members of the appropriate Division. Dues to become a student member of the American Fisheries Society are $30 and dues to become a member of the Chapter are $2. Click here to sign up to be a member of the American Fisheries Society and click here to sign up to be a member of the Mid-Atlantic Chapter. If you plan to become a member of both the National Society and Chapter, you can do so using the National Society member sign-up link. When you become a member of the National Society you can also choose to join Sections (see above) of interest, some are free and some require a fee to join.
What are the benefits of joining the National Society, Chapter, and Subunit?
Here is what one of our Subunit Members had to say: “Being a member of AFS has been crucial to my development as a fisheries biologist. As a graduate student my involvement in this organization has allowed me to build networks within my local chapter and foster relationships and collaborations with professionals from around the country. Local chapter meetings provide an opportunity to present my current research and receive feedback from leading professionals in the field. Additionally, it is an opportunity to learn about exciting on-going research and latest innovative methods being used. Annual meetings provide opportunities to network with professionals in academia, government agencies, non-profits, and stakeholders. As a student attending these meetings there are numerous events including mentoring, hiring workshops, and student-professional pair-ups. Involvement in AFS does not have to stop at attending local and national meetings. Getting involved in my local student subunit has been one of the most rewarding experiences. Benefits of being an AFS student subunit member include involvement in educational and professional activities and development and leadership training.”
If you have any additional questions, please contact us at rutgersafs@gmail.com.