A Brief History of KTE:

In 1957, at the Virginia Polytechnic Institute, the graduating class of co-operative education students founded the Kappa Theta Epsilon Society. Their purpose was to mark in a fitting manner those who conferred honor on their school by distinguished scholarship, industrial ability, integrity, breadth of interest, and adaptability as undergraduates in the Cooperative Education program, and to develop a spirit of competitive achievement in academic work.

The Eta Chapter:

The Eta Chapter of the Kappa Theta Epsilon Society was founded on March 27, 1993.

What is the Purpose of KTE?

The purpose of this organization is five fold:

  • To recognize co-op and intern students with exemplary academic and work performance.
  • To promote and reinforce the value of co-op experience among students and employers.
  • To develop a stronger on-campus social network for co-op and intern students.
  • To develop professional network opportunities.
  • To provide campus leadership opportunities for co-op students.

Kappa Theta Epsilon's mission statement offers the best summary of the organization's true purpose: "To promote the educational value of a co-op or intern experience to all students while serving the VSU Co-op & Intern Program and the community.

What Does KTE do at VSU?

KTE activities generally fall into one of several categories. Some activities are strictly fundraising in nature, while others fulfill KTE's mission to promote the educational value of work experience. Finally, KTE offers social events to help members relax and meet new people. The list below provides some examples of KTE events that typically take place throughout the year.

  • Regular Meetings
  • Social Events
  • Initiation
  • Speaking to Freshman Classes
  • National Convention

What are the Benefits of Membership in KTE?

Membership in KTE has many benefits. The following is a short list of benefits compiled by current and former members of KTE.

  • Potential for interdisciplinary networking.
  • Opportunities for leadership.
  • Learn about different companies and organizations.
  • Pass on experiences to younger students.
  • Learn about other people’s work experiences.
  • Small organization provides chance to form close friendships.
  • Chance to work closely with advisors.
  • Opportunity to attend national conferences.
  • Social event every quarter.

How Do I Become a Member?

There are two types of membership opportunities within KTE. In order to become an official KTE member, one must meet four requirements:

  • Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0.

  • Complete at least 50 credit hours of course work at VSU.

  • Complete 1 work assignment.

  • Obtain a rating of "Above-Average" or "Excellent" from employer.

The second type of KTE membership is Provisional Membership. In order to be considered a provisional member, one need only meet three requirements:

  • Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0.

  • Complete 1 work assignment.

  • Obtain a rating of "Excellent" from employer for work assignment completed.

Upon meeting all of the membership requirements, an eligible candidate should receive a membership invitation via e-mail.

For more information, email kappathetaepsilon@valdosta.edu or call 333-7172.