A Scholar's Journey: My Virtual Experience at the Grace Hopper Celebration

I am Medhavi Singh, a 4th-year computer science student from India. This year I received a scholarship from AnitaB.org to attend the Grace Hopper Celebration virtually. The Grace Hopper Celebration (GHC) scholarship is not just an award; it's a golden ticket to a transformative experience in the ever-evolving world of technology. As a proud recipient of this prestigious scholarship, I've had the privilege of delving into the heart of the tech industry and experiencing firsthand the empowering force of the Grace Hopper Celebration. This annual gathering is more than just a conference; it's a movement, a pivotal moment in the tech calendar where women in technology come together to celebrate their achievements, share knowledge, and inspire the next generation. GHC represents a beacon of inclusivity, diversity, and innovation, and my journey as a scholarship winner is a testament to the profound impact this celebration has on the tech industry and beyond. In this article, I want to share my journey, the lessons learned, and the insights gained, in the hope that it will inspire others to embark on their own remarkable GHC adventure.

Motivation

I first learned about the Grace Hopper Celebration scholarship through a senior who ignited my motivation to apply. As I delved deeper into the scholarship's details, I realized it was a golden chance to engage with remarkable individuals who persevered through challenges, learned from their struggles, and remained unwavering in the tech industry. The prospect of meeting industry experts, connecting with fellow scholars, and immersing myself in the vibrant atmosphere was incredibly exciting. This journey promised not just knowledge but an electric experience.

Application Process

The application process for the Grace Hopper Celebration scholarship is refreshingly straightforward. First, make sure you meet the eligibility criteria outlined on the official scholarship page (https://ghc.anitab.org/attend/scholarships/student/). While GHC does provide scholarships for faculty as well, here, I'm focusing on the student application process.

In the application form, you'll need to provide essential details like your name, address, university, course, age, and more. However, what sets this application apart are the two compelling essays you're required to write. The topics for these essays tend to remain consistent from year to year. For example, this year, the questions were:

1. Tell us about yourself. Why are you interested in being a part of the AnitaB.org Scholarship Program?

2. How will the AnitaB.org Scholarship program impact your personal, academic, and professional journey?

When it comes to writing these essays, my advice is to be genuine and ensure your personal story and struggles shine through. Let the reviewer understand your journey. It can be immensely helpful to have your essays reviewed by previous scholarship recipients. In my case, I had one of my seniors provide valuable feedback. Be sure to include all the challenges and triumphs you've encountered on your tech journey. And don't forget to stay within the specified word limit, as exceeding it can negatively impact your application. This process is your opportunity to paint a vivid picture of your tech journey, and each word should count. Good luck!

The Conference Experience

The Grace Hopper Celebration, spanning three insightful days from September 26th to 29th, was a virtual extravaganza that left a lasting impact. The opening day kick-started with an engaging ceremony where we met fellow attendees in virtual rooms via Zoom. The unique room format allowed us to interact with attendees, and the event portal provided details on live talks and sessions.

The second day was a standout for me. I had the privilege of arranging a 10-minute one-on-one session with a Google employee through the career portal. Our conversation touched on her journey to Google, the perks of working at the tech giant, and valuable tips for aspiring candidates. It was an enlightening experience.

The third day was equally rewarding. I attended various virtual talks, enriching my knowledge, and later joined the closing ceremony to wrap up this remarkable event.

What stood out the most during GHC was the Career Fair. Over 200 companies participated, offering a treasure trove of job openings exclusively for attendees. The event facilitated one-on-one meetings with recruiters and also hosted open sessions, providing a golden opportunity to apply for jobs, connect with company representatives, and gain deeper insights into potential employers. It was a truly remarkable experience that not only broadened my career prospects but also fostered meaningful connections in the tech industry.

Conclusion

My journey at the Grace Hopper Celebration was nothing short of amazing. Those three days were an immersive experience. I forged new connections, engaged with incredible individuals, drew inspiration from their stories, and unearthed numerous opportunities. Without a doubt, I wholeheartedly recommend this scholarship to anyone seeking fresh opportunities in tech and looking to expand their network. Don't miss out on this incredible adventure!