Monthly Archives: January 2012

2012 Generation Google Scholarship

2012 Generation Google Scholarship

Deadline to Apply is February 20, 2012

The Generation Google Scholarship is a new program for aspiring computer scientists to excel in technology and become active role models and leaders in the field.  Selected students will receive $10,000 USD (for those studying in the US) or $5,000 CAD (for those studying in Canada) a year for up to four years (or until graduation, whichever comes first) so long as they maintain criteria for renewal.  Recipients will also be invited to attend Google’s Computer Science Summer Institute (CSSI) in the summer of 2012.

Who Should Apply?

Applicants must be high school seniors and meet the following eligibility criteria:

  • Intends to be enrolled in or accepted as a full-time student at a university in the US or Canada for the 2012-2013 school year
  • Intends to be enrolled in or accepted for enrollment in a baccalaureate Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, or related program
  • Exemplifies leadership and demonstrates a commitment to and passion for computer science and technology through involvement in their community
  • Strong record of academic achievement
  • A student from an underrepresented group in computer science (African American, Hispanic, American Indian, Female, or a Person with a Disability)
  • Demonstrates financial need

For complete details, visit the Generation Google Scholarship site.

Software Allows Rover to Think

I have a fond appreciate for the Mars Rover program.  Way back in 2001 I was afforded the opportunity to work with JPL and IBM to test the first Mars Rover before it lifted off for Mars.  A group of my former students at Carroll High School in Southlake, Texas worked with several other schools from around the world to test a Rover which was situated in the Arizona desert.  We issued commands to the Rover using a control panel we accessed via the internet and were then able to watch the Rover move based on our commands.  It was amazing as we were using a very early video streaming technology.

Software Allows Rover to Think

This article sheds light on how far the technology running on the Rover has come.  Our tech was not able to think back in 2001 and barely did what we asked after waiting for what seemed like a couple days.  Playing Quake over the web was pretty slow back then as well, but we made do.