Frequently Asked Questions (and Answers)
Have a question? Check out the list below.
What is the SoPh Alumni Association?
Formed in early 2023, The School of Professional Horticulture (SoPH) Alumni Association is an independent, alumni-led initiative, working in close collaboration with departments across the New York Botanical Garden and SoPH’s current administration.
Who can join?
Any official graduate of the School of Professional Horticulture is welcome to join. The New York Botanical Garden has many adult education courses, with various certificates offered. The SoPH program is singular. This two-and-a-half-year, intensive program, includes course study, hands-on rotational training throughout the garden, and culminates in a six-month internship.
How do I know if I’m an alum?
Generally speaking, nothing else is like the SoPH program. If you are unsure you are a graduate of the program, reach out with your year of graduation. We can confirm with the Education Department at the New York Botanical Garden (NYBG), that you matriculated through the program.
Does it cost anything to join?
Membership is open to all Alumni with no cost or obligation.
What are the Association’s goals?
We’re looking ahead to 2024 and it’s going to be a busy year. First and foremost, our goal for the near-term is to connect alumni with one another. To that end we’re creating an active, up-to-date directory of SoPH alums. The directory will debut in late winter, 2023.
To best support recent graduates, we’re launching a pilot program for formalized post-graduate mentorship in winter, 2024. And, in April 2024, we’re hosting a networking and reunion event at NYBG, kicking off what will be the first of exclusive events for alumni.
How do I join?
Reach out! We’d love to hear from you. If you’re unsure whether your alum, send us a message and we can look into it.
I’m an alumni and an Association member. How can I volunteer?
There are a lot of ways for Association members to get involved, both in-person and remotely! Our projects range from ad-hoc to ongoing and are anything from mentoring, to copyediting, to website administration, to helping with special events. Contact us and let’s talk about what you’re interested in.