CS STARS applications open March 1, 2025
Program Dates/Location
CS STARS runs each academic year on the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign campus.
Undergraduate Research
CS STARS commit to about 10 hours per week. They conduct research with and are mentored by a Siebel School for Computing and Data Science faculty member (6-7 hours a week) and also engage in recruiting, mentoring, and cohort-building activities (3-4 hours a week).
Eligibility, Qualifications, and Ambassadors Activities
Applications are open to all Illinois undergraduate students 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 school 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.
- Training (10%):
- Enroll in the CS STARS course
Application Information
Timeline
- Applications open on March 1
- Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
- Priority deadline for Fall 2025 is July 1st
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 the 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 school research page to learn more about potential faculty mentors/projects.