About

What We Do

BSSA brings together undergraduate students who share a passion for biology. As an official Registered Student Organization partnered with the School of Biological Sciences, our mission is to provide community, connection, engagement, and professional growth that help students thrive — both during their time at ISU and in their future careers.

We do that through four pillars — community, service, growth, and discovery. From professional development workshops, guest speakers, and lab-skill sessions to volunteering, field trips, and social events, BSSA gives every biology student a place to get involved, build lasting relationships, and explore the biological sciences.

BSSA by the Numbers

What You Can Get Involved In

A quick look at what BSSA runs year-round — full details and sign-ups live on the Opportunities page.

Meet the Exec Board

BSSA's exec board is made up of the co-presidents, five committee vice presidents, a secretary, and a treasurer — supported by understudies and our faculty advisors. Every officer started out as a general member, and many got their start serving on a committee.

Faculty Advisors

Exec Board Logistics

The nuts and bolts of how exec positions work — mainly useful if you're a current member thinking about running for a role. Curious about committees specifically? See the full explanation on the Join a Committee page.

Vice President Transitions

Eligibility

  • Candidate must be a member of BSSA.

Interview Timing

  • Upon notice that a VP will be stepping down.
  • An interest form is made available.
  • Subsequent interviews are scheduled.

Interview Process

  • Co-Presidents review applications.
  • Consult with the exec board.
  • The applicant with a majority of exec votes takes the position.

Term Length

  • Minimum term: 1 semester.
  • May hold the position for multiple terms without re-interviewing, for consistency.

Express Interest in a VP Role

President Transitions

Eligibility

  • Candidate must be a member of BSSA.
  • Must have held an executive board position for at least one semester.
  • Sophomore status or above.

Election Timing

  • Start of the Spring semester — allows time to train the new president.

Election Process

  • Unanimous exec vote: a single candidate may be approved directly.
  • Multiple candidates: a general-member election, with a speech beforehand.

Term Length

  • Minimum term: 2 semesters.
  • May hold the position for multiple terms without re-interviewing, for consistency.