APS Student Caucus: Fostering an Inclusive Global Community

The APS Student Caucus (APSSC) is embarking on a pivotal new phase, reaffirming its dedication to nurturing an inclusive and supportive global community for students in psychological science. As the parent organization, APS, celebrates its first international annual convention in Barcelona, the APSSC is introducing strategic initiatives aimed at broadening student engagement, facilitating career transitions, and amplifying student voices worldwide. These efforts reflect a deep commitment to its diverse membership, ensuring that students from all geographical and academic backgrounds receive tailored support and opportunities for professional growth within the field.

Since its inception in 1989, the APSSC has consistently championed the professional advancement of its student members, aligning with the broader mission of the Association for Psychological Science (APS). A notable development in the 2026–27 term is the APSSC's heightened focus on global outreach. Despite a substantial portion of its student members hailing from institutions outside the U.S., historical data indicates an underrepresentation in APSSC's key decision-making processes and initiatives. To rectify this, the caucus refined its global engagement strategies in the 2025–26 term, organizing specialized panels at the 2025 APS Global Psychological Science Summit and the 2026 APS Annual Convention. These sessions addressed critical topics such as global career pathways, international mentorship, and securing funding for international students, with key insights now accessible through the Observer's Student Notebook and Career Development sections.

In a significant move to solidify its commitment to global members, the APSSC Executive Board unanimously approved the creation of a Global Advocate position, set to be filled during the 2027–28 term. This individual will serve as the primary representative and advocate for APS's global student cohort, including those studying abroad. Collaborating with the Executive Board, the Global Advocate will spearhead initiatives such as program development, facilitating mentorship via the APS Mentorship Program, and showcasing global student perspectives through the Observer's Student Notebook. Additionally, the establishment of the APSSC Global Student Committee aims to further integrate international students into the caucus's activities, with the Global Advocate chairing this committee.

Another core objective for the APSSC is to equip student members for successful transitions into early career roles. The newly formed Early Career Task Force, established at the May board meeting, is designed to support students as they move from academic life into professions as scientists, educators, and practitioners in psychological science. The upcoming 2026 cohort of the APS Mentorship Program, open to all APS members including early and mid-career professionals, will be further enhanced through collaboration between the Task Force and the APSSC Executive Board. This strategic alignment will lead to more targeted programming and partnerships with other APS committees, offering valuable professional development opportunities, especially at the APS Annual Convention.

For over three decades, the involvement and experiences of student members have been the bedrock of the APSSC's identity. APS has consistently supported these students, empowering them to contribute significantly to psychological science through research, innovation, education, and advocacy. The APSSC will continue to provide existing involvement avenues and actively encourage student participation in the 2026–27 term. Furthermore, it plans to amplify student voices, perspectives, and experiences through the Observer's Student Notebook, complementing these insights with essential information on funding and professional development to foster a vibrant and inclusive community.