CS Student Ambassadors/Research Scholars- Application Information
Applications are now open for the 2023-24 Academic Year
Program Dates/Location
CS STARS will run each academic year beginning with the 2021-22 year. Program activities will take place on the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign campus.
Undergraduate Research Appointments
CS STARS will be appointed to undergraduate hourly positions with a rate determined by experience according to departmental guidelines. The CS STARS Course will be included as part of each participant's 10-hour appointment.
Eligibility, Qualifications, and Ambassadors Activities
Applications are open to all Illinois undergraduate students who are interested in pursuing research and empowering women in Computer Science.
- Experience (preferred but not required):
- Research (e.g., Summer Research Experiences for Undergraduates)
- Mentorship, leadership, and teaching at any level (e.g., student organization leadership, CA experience, community mentorship/volunteer work with youth)
- Knowledge:
- Commitment to broadening participation in education and supporting students from diverse backgrounds
- Excellent listening, oral, organizational, and communication skills
- Potential for leadership, mentorship, and empathy
CS STARS will spend their time on the following activities:
- Research (65%):
- Academic Year: Work with a CS faculty member on a research topic of interest.
- Leadership and Mentorship (25%):
- Academic Year: Plan and execute recruiting, mentoring, and cohort-building activities for undergraduate women in computing.
- Summer (optional): Serve as Illinois CS Kickstart mentoring/leadership staff. Develop and facilitate activities and programming for program participants.
- Training (10%):
- Enroll in the CS STARS course
- OPTIONAL: Attend summer training to serve as Illinois CS Kickstart Mentor
Application Information
Timeline
- Applications open on February 15
- Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
- Priority deadline for Spring 2024: December 7
Application Materials
The CS STARS application is designed to give a holistic view of each applicant's personal, academic, leadership, and research history/interests. The following materials provide this information:
- 300-500 word Personal Statement: a 300-500 word statement of interest describing your interest in CS STARS and why your background and experiences would benefit you in this role. This statement should discuss your interests in broadening participation in computing or diversity and inclusion work.
- 300-500 word Research Statement: Describe any prior research experiences you may have had (not required) and what research topics you would like to pursue while in CS STARS.
- 100-200 word Leadership and Mentorship Statement: Describe any leadership or mentorship experience you have and how you facilitated a welcoming and inclusive environment as part of your work in this role.
- Name and Email Address for One Reference: Applicants must upload this into their application. Reference letters will be requested on behalf of the applicant through our application portal. Applicants do NOT need to upload their letters or have references email a letter to the program.
- GPA: University of Illinois Students should provide their current UIUC GPA. Incoming students should provide their high school GPA. Other application materials (application statements, CV) will provide the necessary context for your GPA.
- Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Faculty/Research Areas: To explore faculty/research projects with whom you would like to engage, please visit our Illinois CS Research page to learn more about potential faculty mentors/projects.