How can APA Divisions help you?

Jul 01, 2019

Note: This blog contains information about APA 2019.

It can be quite intimidating to figure out where to start and how to network at APA.

The 54 divisions of APA are groups organized for members by members, and they can help you, especially during APA 2019. Some represent subdisciplines of psychology such as experimental, social, and clinical, while others focus on topical areas such as aging, ethnicity, and trauma.

You can focus on your areas of interest, connect with others, and flourish in your studies or career. Division members often say that they think of them as their “professional home in APA.”

“Belonging to a division is the best step in your career. Finding others with similar goals and interests enhances my professional and personal life.” –Kathy K.

“Divisions provide education, advocacy, and opportunities for training and leadership.” –Theresa C.

“It has opened up opportunities to use my skills effectively and appropriately.” –Vikki C.

Membership benefits include:

Networking. Many divisions have social hours and hospitality suites during the APA 2019. Look for these in the featured division sessions and program book and think about which ones are most appealing to you.
Awards and grants. Each division has its own awards and grants. Some of these are presented to the winners during the APA 2019. You may find these award presentations in the program, and you may find more information about awards on the divisions’ websites . With some research, you may find something that you would like to work toward.
Leadership, fellowship, and mentoring. All the divisions have their own elected leadership, including president, secretary, and treasurer, as well as appointed positions, such as membership and communications chairs. In many cases there are student and early career psychologist (ECP) representatives and committees. In addition, members can apply for fellow status through their division to be recognized for unusual and outstanding contributions in that area of psychology. Many divisions also offer mentoring programs.
News and research. Various methods of communication are used within the divisions. There are electronic mailing lists, listservs, communities, newsletters, journals, social media accounts, and websites, all where division leaders and members might share news, questions, job postings, and calls for nominations for awards and committees.