US EPA

7215451 

Journal Article 

Population dynamics of student membership in the American Fisheries Society 

Fisher, SJ; , 

1999 

Yes 

Fisheries
ISSN: 0363-2415
EISSN: 1548-8446 

AMER FISHERIES SOC 

BETHESDA 

26-29 

WOS:000078965900004 

A spectrum of perceptions concerning student involvement in the American Fisheries Society exists among fisheries students, faculty, and agency professionals. Perceptions involving the value and role of students within the Society may ha cie implications for long-term student recruitment. To assess student membership perceptions, we conducted an informal inquiry Respondents agreed that students benefitted from Society membership through increased networking, professional development, and information exchange. Participants also concurred that the Society gained new perspectives, ideas, and diversity from the influx of student members. However, many benefits remain unrealized due to roadblocks such as student-perceived professional resistance and role models who may misdirect student enthusiasm. Maintaining a stable, progressive Society depends on continued student contributions; therefore, all Society members must overcome perceived barriers and recruit, retain, and develop student members.