It’s only the beginning of the semester, and you are already writing multiple papers each week, working on group projects and trying to secure a coveted internship position in a competitive world. Members of Lambda Pi Eta (LPE) understand all of the excitement and challenges that coincide with being a Communications Studies major or minor and work together to help one another make the most out of the college experience.
West Chester University’s chapter of Lambda Pi Eta is part of a national exclusive communications honors society that recognizes eligible students in the Communication Studies major.
Its mission is “to stimulate interest in the field of communication, promote and encourage professional development among communication majors and explore options for graduate education in communication studies.”
“LPE has opened many doors for me that I would not have discovered without joining this group. It’s a great way to make connections that will help you further your education and succeed after graduation,” Emily Bass, Lambda Pi Eta President and a senior Communication Studies major said.
West Chester University has acknowledged the benefits that LPE provides members by granting it the 2008-2009 Most Improved Organization Award.
One of the ways in which LPE benefits students is by providing opportunities to gain real-world communication experience. Members interested in public relations and event planning can use their creative skills to develop promotional materials or organize philanthropic and social events. These experiences can be added to resumes and portfolios to impress potential internship or full-time employers.
“Our chapter of Lambda Pi Eta is an exciting, growing organization that helps outstanding Communication students apply classroom skills to real-world projects,” Dr. Maria Kopacz, Advisor to Lambda Pi Eta said. “By being active in LPE, our members serve the department and the greater community, at the same time gaining valuable work experience that will be very useful after graduation.”
Networking is a vital component of a student’s career path. LPE helps members establish connections by co-hosting a Communication Career Night event as well as invite back former LPE members that have established successful careers after college.
“LPE provides great opportunities to meet other students in the major, as well as professionals in communication studies-related careers. As a member, I feel better equipped for life after college,” Lauren Whitcomb, a senior Communication Studies major said.
There are multiple activities and events planned for the fall semester for potential new members to take part in, including a semester-long project for a local charity, monthly workshops to improve resume writing and interview skills and social events to network with fellow members.
LPE has also developed a peer mentoring program to help new Communication Studies students acclimate to the major. Participants are assigned to an LPE member who can provide personal experience to aid the transition into the major. This growing program continues to receive positive feedback from both mentors and mentees.
As an exclusive organization, certain requirements must be met before a student is eligible to join Lambda Pi Eta. These include:
Minimum 45 credits completed for all college courses taken
Minimum cumulative 3.00 GPA for all college courses taken
Minimum nine credits completed for Communication Studies courses taken
Minimum cumulative 3.50 GPA for Communication Studies courses taken
One-time induction fee of $45
At least one semester remaining before graduation
Interested students, including those who do not yet meet eligibility requirements, are encouraged to contact LPE for a brochure and further information on how to join.
Students are also invited to attend Lambda Pi Eta’s first meeting on September 20 at 7:15 p.m. in Main Hall 403 to learn more.
Students can also visit the official LPE website at http://communication.wcupa.edu/lpe and join the LPE Facebook page.
Tracy Combs is a senior Communication Studies major. She can be reached at tc694114@wcupa.edu.