Wendy, Being active in so many professional organizations is a great way to be among the first of your peers to hear about exciting competitions and courses being offered in your field. Do any of the organizations you belong to have student chapters? I believe student involvement is an important first step when training for a new profession because learners are exposed to various perspectives by professionals such as yourself- not to mention the scholarship opportunities offered by such organizations. Wishing you continued success in the classroom. Theresa Schmitt