Outstanding West Virginia University students who want to give back to their campus and community are encouraged to apply online for the Helvetia (sophomore), Chimes (junior) or Mortar Board (national senior) honoraries.

Induction into these groups is a great honor and may be helpful when students apply for other University awards, such as Order of Augusta, or professional programs, said Keith Garbutt, dean of WVU s Honors College.

Professional programs are looking for evidence that youve been of service to other people,he said,and all of these have opportunities to attend meetings and take part in service activities.

Selection is based on a combination of academics, honors and awards, campus activities, community service and contributions to the students major field of study or academic department. To be considered, students must have at least a 3.3 GPA for Helvetia and Chimes and a 3.4 GPA for Mortar Board.

In addition, Mortar Board requires two recommendationsone from a faculty member and another from an extracurricular adviser. Applicantswork activities and difficulty of class schedule may also play a factor.

WVU has created a special page, linked to the Weekend of Honors Web site, where students can view the specific criteria and apply online. Just log onto http://weekendofhonors.wvu.edu/ , and click onhonorariesto get started. The application deadline is Friday, March 7.

We think students will find this is a simple and convenient way to apply,said Stephanie Ballard Conrad, senior special events coordinator.Since everything is Web-based, they can go online any time of the day and complete the form.

Students inducted into these honoraries will be recognized during the Universitys annual Weekend of Honors activities April 11-13.

If students have questions about the application process, they may e-mail stephanie.ballard-conrad@mail.wvu.edu . More information about the Weekend of Honors will be posted online as plans are finalized.