What are Google scholarships for college students like?

Has anyone applied for a Google scholarship meant for college students? I'm curious about what the application process is like and any advice for making an application stand out.

Google offers a few different scholarships for college students, and the application process can somewhat vary among them. Generally speaking, the application typically asks for some personal information, a transcript, a resume, and a couple of short essays, and the essays will be a large factor in your selection.

For example, consider the Google Lime Scholarship for students with disabilities. For this scholarship, the application requires candidates to demonstrate leadership, passion for computer science or any technology-related field, and also exhibit a strong academic record. Additionally, they may ask for letters of recommendation.

Another Google Scholarship is for women in technology called the Women Techmakers Scholars Program. The selection process involves evaluating the leadership and impact on the community of women in technology. They also consider academic performance.

So, for ensuring your application stands out:

1. Stand Out Academically: Having a strong academic record is incredibly important. Make sure your transcript reflects that you've challenged yourself with rigorous coursework in computer science or related fields.

2. Leverage Your Essays: Use your essays as a way to provide a personal narrative that ties together your academic interest in technology, your leadership experiences, and your community impact. Tell a coherent story about your passion for technology and how you've used it to make a difference.

3. Highlight Your Leadership: Demonstrate your leadership in your resume, whether that's through leading a tech-related club, organizing hackathons or coding events, or pioneering initiatives in your community or school.

4. Get Strong Letters of Recommendation: If a letter of recommendation is required, make sure it is from someone who can speak to your skills, enthusiasm, and leadership in technology.

Overall, they are looking for passionate, academically strong students who are actively using technology to impact their communities or spheres of influence. Make sure these traits shine through in your application. Good luck!