Get Involved. Get Connected. Grow Together. Discover how you can engage, collaborate, and build your academic community.
RSS isn’t just a place to study rural sociology—it’s a space to participate, lead, and thrive. As a student, you can contribute to national conversations, connect with peers and professionals who share your interests, and find your niche within a welcoming, multidisciplinary network. Whether you’re presenting at a conference, joining a Research and Interest Group (RIG), applying for awards, or stepping into leadership, there’s a pathway for you. Your voice and ideas are valued here—come take part in the conversations shaping rural communities and the future of the field.
How to Get Involved
Join the Student Listserv
Stay updated with the latest news, opportunities, and announcements.
➤ Join the Listserv (instructions provided)
➤ Subscribe to our monthly eBulletin via rural_sociology@byu.edu
Present at the Annual Meeting
Showcase your research at our student-friendly Annual Meeting held mid-July to mid-August across the U.S.
🔹 Submit a paper, poster, or organized session
🔹 Participate in student networking:
- Speed Networking Event
- Graduate Student Reception with the RSS President
- Professional Development Workshops
Call for Papers: November
Abstract Deadline: February
Join a Research & Interest Group (RIG)
Connect with students and professionals who share your research interests.
Current RIGs include:
Applied and Extension
Community, Health, and Family
Gender & Sexualities
International Development and Studies
Natural Resources
Population
Rural Law and Justice
Rural Policy
Rural Poverty
Rural Race and Ethnicity
Sociology of Food and Agriculture (SAFRIG)
Teaching and Curriculum
The Elders (formerly Senior Rural Sociologists)
Youth, Education, and Rural Vitality
Become a member, volunteer, or propose a session at the annual meeting.
Contact any RIG Chair or Co-Chair to get started.
Serve on a Committee
We welcome graduate students to join Standing Committees:
Awards & Endowment
Development
Diversity
Membership
Program
Publications & Communications
Student Reps on the RSS Leadership Council:
Lalaki Hikmatu Awudu: awuduhik@msu.edu
Hannah Whitley: htw3@psu.edu
Apply for Student Awards
Submit your work for monetary awards that support your academic journey.
Awards include:
Olaf Larson Graduate Student Paper Award
Master’s Thesis/Dissertation Research Awards
Additional RIG-specific awards
Check your listserv or contact RIG leaders for award calls.
Student Spotlight
Feature profiles of current student members—undergrads and grads—highlighting their research, experiences within RSS, and advice for newcomers. This encourages relatability and peer-to-peer inspiration.
Mentorship Program
Launch a structured Mentorship Match where early-career students can be paired with experienced grad students or faculty in their RIG. Include clear steps:
Fill out a brief profile form
RSS matches you with a mentor
Get support on research, presentations, and career planning
Webinars & Workshops
Host quarterly skill-building webinars or workshops around topics like:
“Crafting a Stand-Out Conference Abstract”
“Navigating Your First Academic Presentation”
“Grant-Writing for Graduate Students”
Promote upcoming and recorded sessions here.
Volunteer & Outreach Opportunities
Showcase ways to contribute beyond RSS meetings:
Volunteering in communities or RIG-based outreach (e.g., helping with rural education events)
Participating in advocacy campaigns on rural issues
Assisting with website updates or newsletter content
Why It Matters
Reference these proven ideas to illustrate value:
Mentorship boosts confidence and retention in academic fields
Student spotlights help foster community and belonging
Skill-focused webinars support student success during conferences and awards prep