Questions and Answers

This document was created by SSP National to help chapters navigate frequently asked questions. Please be sure to read this document along with our current National Bylaws in their entirety. If questions persist, please see the contact information below as we are happy to help.

Q: How do I order pins?

A: To order pins, visit lapelpins.com. You will need to submit an order with the appropriate image to receive a quote. After submission, you will be contacted by them to complete the rest of the order. Below is an example pin photo along with contact information.

 Q: How do I order stoles and cords?

A: Stoles and cords can be ordered from Oak Hall Cap & Gown Co., Inc. The easiest way is to call them and connect with customer service. They will know what color cord is needed for SSP. Below is a photo of the cord along with contact information.

Q: How do I order senior certificates?

A: Senior certificates are provided by National SSP. These must be submitted by properly filling out the spreadsheet (sample here) and sending it to debbie@sigmasigmaphi.org. Senior information is due no later than March 1st (of that graduating year). If you do not have a graduating class, please let us know. While senior certificates are provided by national, any corrections needed after submission (ex: spelling errors) will incur a cost of reproduction charged to the chapter.

Q: How do I select new members for my chapter/what are membership requirements?

A: The national bylaws contain the specifics for academic and service requirements. Notably, chapter enrollment is capped at 20% of regular enrollment. Please review the national bylaws regarding academic and service requirements.

Q: What are the community service hour requirements for OMS I, II, III, and IV?

A: As stated in the national bylaws, members are required to have 8 hours/semester for OMS-I and OMS-II. For OMS-III and OMS-IV, members are required to have 4 hours/semester. Please note that hours should not be completed in less than 2-hour segments (unless approved by the chapter) and that there are no requirements for the final semester as OMS-IV. Additionally, these requirements can be considered the minimum, meaning that chapters are free to have additional hour requirements.

Q: How much are membership dues?

A: National membership dues are $90/student. Chapter dues vary as each chapter decides their own amount.

Q: What do membership dues cover?

A: National membership dues cover a student’s SSP membership during medical school and throughout the entire residency, no matter the number of years, but we would like you to keep us updated with current addresses and emails.

Q: When should my chapter submit membership dues?

A: Membership dues are due within 45 days of new members being inducted.

Q: What is needed for my chapter's induction ceremony?

A: The exact logistics of the induction ceremony can vary from chapter to chapter. However, it is recommended to provide each member with an SSP pin and induction certificate. Induction certificates provide evidence of SSP membership for future residency applications. Templates of SSP induction certificates can be found within the national bylaws.

Q: What is required in my SSP chapter report?

A: Specifics, FAQs, and how to submit chapter reports can be found on the SSP website: SSP Chapter Report Requirements. Chapter reports are due from the outgoing chapter president by the end of May for that year.

Q: Is OMED attendance required?

A: Yes, attendance by one member from each chapter is required either in person or virtually. Chapters that decide to attend in person and are in good standing will receive $500 at OMED to assist with travel costs.

Q: What is the legacy project?

A: A legacy project is hosted annually by each chapter. Legacy projects can be changed upon notification to national. The intent of the project is to have a recurring event in which chapter members can participate and earn service hours.

Q: What is the legacy project?

A: A legacy project is hosted annually by each chapter. Legacy projects can be changed upon notification to national. The intent of the project is to have a recurring event in which chapter members can participate and earn service hours.

Q: Can I create t-shirts or other merchandise for my chapter?

A: Absolutely! Prior to purchase, be sure to email the merchandise design to national so we can approve of the messaging. Below is a photo of the SSP logo for use.