Hey guys, the applications for this year’s program opened on the 21st. I thought I would go ahead and start a thread to connect with applicants.
Has anyone else here applied to CSSI and/or the Generation Google Scholarship?
Excited to get to know you guys! 
I’m in the process of applying right now
@buddy16 Nice to meet you. Domestic applicant?
@11kysta Yeah, I’m from MA. How bout you?
Do we have to provide a resume/curriculum vitae? The requirements for the scholarship never state this, yet the general application requires this as a necessary component.
The program requirements do not state this maybe because without them the general application wouldn’t be complete.
They will have a session where a few Googlers will provide feedback on our resumes and talk about ways to improve them.
Oh wow, I didn’t know that, I thought the resume was just for admission.
@buddy16 I am an international applicant. Nice to meet you.
Hey guys, I have a question. For those who have an interest in learning computer science applications for engineering but have absolutely NO background in computer science (I’ve just taken dual enrollment calculus courses), do you recommend only applying for CSSI or for the Generation scholarship as well? I feel like those who get the scholarship are completely sure about computer science or at least have a higher background.
@11kysta Awesome! Where from?
@Arsey9 Definitely! The website specifically says: “Google’s Computer Science Summer Institute (CSSI) is a three-week introduction to computer science for graduating high school seniors with a passion for technology”. It’s meant to be an introduction. It’s not just for people who want to major in computer science, I know someone that attended the program and majored in electrical engineering. I totally recommend applying.
I’m applying too! Does anyone know what the acceptance rate is like?
Also, the website says the program is especially for students from “historically underrepresented groups in the field.” When I watched the promo video on their website, it seemed like everyone was a woman or from a minority background.
Does this mean I have no shot at getting in as an Asian male?
@BlueSnail I heard the acceptance rate is quite low and the program, very selective.
I would say you should apply and as far as being a minority goes, being Asian is considered as being a part of the minority, I believe.
@11kysta Well, it does say “underrepresented groups”, and I don’t think the Asian male fits the underrepresented part in CS.
Ah, yes. Anyway, @BlueSnail should apply. It wouldn’t hurt sending in your application now, would it?
I just submitted my application. Does anyone know when I should hear anything from Google?
@buddy16 It says in the FAQ that “Applicants who are accepted will be notified in early May 2017”.
The application site is not letting me access the application until I upload my transcript from my school, which won’t be available for another two weeks. However, I want to get started on my essays now.
Could someone let me know what the essay questions are and what the word limits are? Thanks!
@BlueSnail Yes, I saw that, but I was wondering when we get notified for interviews and such. Here’s the questions and word limits:
- Why are you interested in attending CSSI? (150 word max limit)
- How were you first introduced to computer science? (150 word max limit)
- Problem solving and analytical thinking are important skills for a successful computer scientist. Please share an example demonstrating a time you used your problem solving skills to overcome a challenge or obstacle. This can be in relation to a project, extracurricular activity, work, etc. (200 word max limit)
- How does YouTube work? Pick one feature/thing you can do on YouTube and describe how you think it works behind the scenes -- both on the user's device and at Google. Talk us through your thought process on how this feature works from a technical perspective. Think about what needs to happen for someone to use this feature and explain step by step the process (e.g. searching for a video). (200 word max limit)
- Please give us one example of how you have exhibited leadership. Explain how you were influential, what you were trying to achieve and the impact you had as a result. This need not be demonstrated through a formal or traditional leadership role. Think broadly and examine the ways you are having an effect on the members of your school or your broader community. (150 word max limit. This example might overlap with question #3 - which is fine! - so please focus on leadership skills for this response.)
- Part of the consideration for receiving the Generation Google Scholarship is financial need. Please describe your financial need for this scholarship and what it would enable you to accomplish in your academic career. (200 word max limit)
@buddy16 Thanks!
Also, I don’t think there are interviews this year, because there weren’t interviews last year (see last year’s CSSI discussion thread)