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The First Annual SEUT Essay Contest


Shaping the Future of Data and Technology

Are you a high school student with a keen interest in how data and technology are shaping our world and your future? Have you thought critically about your own role in the design, deployment, usage and management of data and technology? In our first annual essay contest, we invite you to reflect on your personal journey and vision as a future leader in this field. Evaluated by a panel of experts in relevant fields, a student with a winning submission will earn a $2,000 scholarship towards their college tuition, books, and fees.*

Eligibility:

Must be a current high school student as of Fall 2024. Must be a legal resident of the United States of America.

Prompt:
Articulate why the concept of ethical use of technology interests you. What personal experiences or inspirations have fueled your interest? Then, look ahead: What ethical challenges in the world of data and technology most concern you, and how do you hope to address them?

Consider questions like:

  • What responsibilities come with using emerging, data-driven technologies such as Machine Learning and LLM’s?

  • How can we ensure that advancements in these fields are inclusive, fair, and socially responsible?

  • What specific ethical issues, such as privacy, bias, or misinformation, resonate with you the most, and why?

Through a personal narrative, show us how your unique perspective and passion can lead to meaningful change.

Submission Guidelines:

  • Essays should be between 750-1000 words.

  • Focus on personal storytelling and thoughtful engagement with ethical issues surrounding our current use and development of data-driven technologies.

  • Include examples from your life or experiences that connect to your aspirations in shaping the future of data and technology.

  • Registration opens on January 27th, 2025. Submissions are due on March 30th, 2025.

In addition to the scholarship, select essays will be recognized for their creativity, insight, and potential to inspire others in the field. By participating, you contribute to a vital conversation about the future of data and technology and the ethical leadership it requires.

We can’t wait to hear your story.

*Definition of scholarship: Scholarships are gifts that don’t have to be repaid and are designed to help students pay for college or career school. They can be a one-time gift or renewable, depending on the scholarship. Source: https://studentaid.gov/help-center/answers/article/scholarship