UCLA Sigma Pi Sigma
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
What do membership dues go towards?
Paying dues is a necessary part of joining the national organization of Sigma Pi Sigma, and is a one-time fee. Dues for UCLA's chapter of Sigma Pi Sigma allow us to fund members-only events such as overnight trips/lab tours, our annual Induction ceremony, social events, and academic resources such as our test bank.
What factors are considered in my application?
The main factors are academic and extracurricular excellence, with an emphasis on scientific research. GPA is a large contributing factor — we have a minimum cutoff of 3.2 and above. However, we take a holistic approach, and do not expect lowerclassmen/transfers to have the same resume/research experience as upperclassmen. Besides research experience and academic achievement, we seek individuals who demonstrate a passion for and have a strong desire to pursue physics.
What can I expect following an invitation?
Following invitations and acceptances, there will be a mandatory introduction night where we will present information and initiate you into the organization.
After being accepted into our chapter of Sigma Pi Sigma, expect to receive an email invitation to register with the national organization and pay the national dues. You will be added to our members’ only GroupMe and given access to our academic resources.
In the weeks following, there will be a mix of social and professional events designed to introduce you to our community and aid your development as a researcher.
What time commitment is expected?
Mandatory events are rare, but involvement and regular engagement are strongly encouraged to obtain the full benefits of membership and the community.
We aim to add value to your academic and professional life without eating up all your time.
What academic & professional resources will i have available to me?
You will have access to one of UCLA’s largest academic test banks, which is constantly updated with new exams. As part of our Big-Little mentorship program, you will also be paired up with an upperclassman Sigma Pi Sigma member who can offer academic and professional mentorship.
Moreover, we run introductory seminars on breaking into research as well as workshops on key research skills like LaTeX. We also host Q&A panels involving professors, graduate students, and undergraduate students to answer questions about research.
How do I access the test bank?
Once initiated as a member of UCLA Sigma Pi Sigma, you will be provided with the link and a chapter-only password to access our test bank.
How does the Big-Little Mentorship System work?
Our Big-Little Mentorship system allows us to pair lower and upperclassmen based on shared research interests and career goals to create systematic mentorship for our newer members. After pairing, we will hold a Big-Little reveal night to introduce our mentors and mentees to one another!
How long does membership in Sigma Pi Sigma last?
Forever! Once you become a National member of Sigma Pi Sigma, you are always a part of the wider organization.
Whats the difference between National and Local dues?
National dues make you an officially registered member of the national Sigma Pi Sigma organization. Local dues make you an official member of UCLA’s chapter.
What do I get from paying national dues?
By paying national dues, you will be in Sigma Pi Sigma for life, opening you up to a national network of ~90,000+ scientists, students, and educators. Membership makes you eligible for various scholarships, awards, and other academic resources/connections.