Each year, the Aspirations in Computing (AiC) program receives thousands of amazing award applications from women, genderqueer, and non-binary students across the country who are interested in tech. To select recipients of the national and regional awards, volunteers of all experience levels are needed to review and score each submission. It’s a simple and inspiring way to meet and help support the next generation of computer scientists and technologists and increase much-needed diversity within STEM fields!
The goal of Aspirations in Computing Recognitions is two-fold:
1. Create a diverse talent discovery pipeline. 2. Build a supportive community nationwide.
Volunteers reviewers play a key role in recognizing and encouraging the next generation of technologists, as well as their educators and mentors. It’s also rewarding and convenient, since volunteers can complete reviews at their own pace online anytime before the deadlines listed below:
1. AiC High School Award: October 30, 2023 – December 3, 2023 2. AiC Educator Award: December 1, 2023 – January 8, 2024 3. AiC Collegiate Award Round 1: December 1 – January 1, 2024 4. AiC Collegiate Award Round 2: February 8 – February 29, 2024
Each review takes about 10-25 minutes to complete, and outside of the Collegiate Award, no technical experience is required to participate. Find more details about the commitments and experience required here.
In addition, the Aspirations in Computing team provides volunteer certificates to those who complete more than 20 reviews. Check with your company to see if being a volunteer application reviewer qualifies as required corporate volunteer hours!
To get started, visit aspirations.org and click “REGISTER” in the top nav bar. This directs to the secure registration portal where volunteers can select the “Award Reviewer” account type at the bottom of the page. To create an account, simply provide a valid email address and set your password. When signed in, volunteers can request reviews, and the AiC team will assign a batch of the minimum required applications to review.Â
Looking for a way to feel and express your gratitude this season? The upcoming holiday is a great time to review award applications and be thankful that so many talented young people and passionate educators are interested in computing and technology and devoted to increasing inclusion! Each review takes about 10-25 minutes, and you can go at your own pace until the review periods close.Â
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If you can’t make the event on Nov. 15, or if you have questions, you can watch a recording of a Q&A webinar with the Aspirations in Computing Recognitions Program Manager Susahnn Valente and Regional Affiliate Manager Susie Park-Kelly. Each award also has an online training module and instructions that reviewers are strongly encouraged to complete:
Volunteers with additional questions are also welcome to send an email to [email protected].Â
