Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many points are required to maintain my membership into Phi Alpha & graduate with honors?
A: You are required to complete 7 points for two consecutive semesters to maintain your membership and graduate with honors. (Meaning a total of 14 points for two semesters). Remember that we are not active in the summer term, so points must be completed in the Fall & Spring semesters.
Q. Can I attend events at other campuses?
A: Yes. As long as you sign-in we will know that you have attended and award you the appropriate points.
Q: Am I required to attend an event?
A: It depends. If you are a Student Social Work Association you are not required to do anything besides pay your $5 dues each semester. However, if you are a Phi Alpha member, you are required to attend at least ONE Phi Alpha sponsored event per semester.
Q: If I volunteer at an agency, can I get Phi Alpha points for my work?
A: Yes. All we would need is a letter from the agency stating that you have been volunteering there. The letter should include how long you have been volunteering. 3 points will be awarded for this.
Q: How do I obtain my points for Phi Alpha?
A: Points for service hours may be achieved through the following:
1. Active membership in the Student Social Work Association (attending meetings & functions).
1 Point for attending meetings
2 Points for attending functions (Picnic, parties,
etc.) (Luncheon & Gala are not included).
* You must attend at least ONE Phi Alpha sponsored event per semester.
2. Holding Office in the Student Social Work Association/Phi Alpha -- 5 Points
3. Serving on a committee in the Student Social Work Association/Phi Alpha
4 Points for chairing committee
2 Points for serving on committee
4. Representing Phi
Alpha & the Student Social Work Association at faculty meetings, NASW,
SOC
meetings, Honors Council meetings, or other approved committees.
3 Points - Please describe and submit
a letter from the program or agency (2 weeks prior to end of the
semester).
* A point book is kept in University Park Campus in Professor Hayden's office. It is your responsibility to make sure your points are accounted for before the end of the semester.
Q: Is there a minimum Grade Point Average for membership?
A: If you are only a Student Social Work member, there is no minimum GPA requirement. If you are a Phi Alpha member you must have a 3.0 FIU overall GPA, and a 3.25 GPA in social work courses.
Q: Are there any other requirements for membership?
A: As has been said before, as a Student Social Work Association member, you only need to pay your $5 dues each semester. As a Phi Alpha member, you must also meet these requirements:
Undergraduate Students
1. Completion of minimum requirements 9 credits in social work courses
2. FIU overall GPA of 3.0 ( Please submit SASS).
3. Minimum GPA of 3.25 in social work courses.
4. Minimum 7 points per semester in required service hours.
5. Membership in SSWA (renewable each semester)
Graduate Students
1. Completion of minimum of 9 credits in social work courses.
2. Minimum of 3.5 GPA. (Submit grade sheet or transcript).
3. Minimum of 7 points per semester in required service hours.
4. Membership in SSWA. (Renewable each semester)