Discover new terminology or links to other associations to expand your search. Contact the association, stating that you are a university student doing research on this field. From this you can learn more about the merits of joining at both the national level as well as the local level. Ask if they can give you the name of a contact person in your geographic area. A local contact can then answer some of your questions about the association, tell you when and where the next meeting will be held and may invite you to attend as a guest.
Associations are usually willing to send a sample that is slightly out of date.
These publications are often one of the quickest and easiest ways to obtain information about your career as well as information about many of the employers in your field. If the association offers membership to students, it is usually at much lower cost than for regular members. In most cases, you will be able to attend the monthly meetings where you can introduce yourself to professionals in your field and begin networking and asking questions. Members can be a valuable source of career information, suggestions on how to enhance your career and sources of potential internships or jobs. Regular attendance at meetings is an opportunity to ask questions, get involved and make friends.