Membership: What’s your story?

This column invites ASA, CSSA, and SSSA members to talk about their personal experiences with the Societies. Every member has a story. What’s yours? We’d love to hear from you. Email Send Message.

Mussie Habteselassie

Membership gives me a sense of belonging in my profession and has opened many opportunities in advancing my career. I am grateful for that. I am also grateful to my Ph.D. mentor for making it possible for me to get involved in the Societies early on. I endeavor to do the same with my students. I feel lucky and privileged to have a career that gives me the opportunity to discover new things and train future scientists.

I attend the Annual Meeting every year. For me, it is the highlight of the year professionally. It gives me a big platform to share my work and learn from others. It also gives me the opportunity to network with fellow scientists from the U.S. and around the world. The meetings are a great time to renew existing relationships, form new ones, meet potential recruits, and have some good times with friends.

Society membership has given me the opportunity to serve in committees and on journal editorial boards. It has provided me with a platform to run for leadership positions and introduce myself to fellow scientists that play an important role as peer reviewers of my work. It has also been a constant source of information for other professional development opportunities and recruiting. I believe these opportunities have enhanced my professional profile and advancement.