A Legacy of Excellence
Established in memory of Harriet Fitzgerald, a pioneering computer scientist and advocate for women in STEM, the Harriet Fitzgerald Scholarship provides financial assistance and mentorship to female students pursuing undergraduate or graduate degrees in technology-related fields.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the Harriet Fitzgerald Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Female
- Enrolled in an accredited undergraduate or graduate program in computer science, engineering, or a related field
- Demonstrated academic excellence (minimum GPA of 3.5)
- Strong leadership skills and a commitment to diversity and inclusion in technology
Award Structure
The Harriet Fitzgerald Scholarship awards vary in amount depending on the level of education and financial need of the recipient. Undergraduate recipients typically receive $5,000 per year, while graduate recipients may receive up to $10,000 per year.
In addition to financial support, scholarship recipients receive:
- Mentorship from industry leaders
- Networking opportunities with technology professionals
- Participation in exclusive events and workshops
Impact and Benefits
The Harriet Fitzgerald Scholarship has a profound impact on the lives and careers of its recipients. As of 2023, the scholarship has awarded over $1 million to more than 100 female students.
Scholarship recipients have gone on to pursue successful careers in technology, including:
- Software engineers at Fortune 500 companies
- Researchers at leading universities
- Entrepreneurs founding their own startups
Benefits for Recipients:
- Financial assistance to cover tuition, fees, and living expenses
- Personalized mentorship and guidance
- Access to a network of influential professionals
- Increased confidence and leadership skills
- Enhanced career opportunities in technology
Benefits for the Technology Industry:
- Increased diversity and representation of women in technology
- A pipeline of highly qualified female technology professionals
- Innovation and progress driven by a more diverse workforce
Why the Harriet Fitzgerald Scholarship Matters
Addressing Gender Disparity in Technology: According to the National Science Foundation, women make up only 28% of the workforce in STEM fields. The Harriet Fitzgerald Scholarship aims to bridge this gap by providing support and encouragement to female students who are passionate about technology.
Empowering Women in Leadership: Leadership is essential for driving change and innovation in the technology industry. The scholarship provides mentorship and networking opportunities that empower women to develop their leadership skills and take on leadership roles.
Fostering Diversity and Inclusion: A diverse and inclusive workforce is crucial for the success of any industry. The Harriet Fitzgerald Scholarship contributes to building a more diverse and inclusive technology industry by supporting women from underrepresented groups.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to visit the Harriet Fitzgerald Scholarship website for detailed application instructions. Applications typically open in the fall of the year preceding the academic year for which the scholarship is being awarded.
Application Tips
- Highlight your academic achievements, leadership experience, and commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Seek strong letters of recommendation from professors or industry professionals who can attest to your qualifications.
- Showcase your passion for technology and your goals for your career.
- Proofread your application carefully before submitting it.
Conclusion
The Harriet Fitzgerald Scholarship is an invaluable resource for female students pursuing careers in technology. By providing financial assistance, mentorship, and a supportive community, the scholarship empowers women to achieve their full potential and make significant contributions to the technology industry.
