Community Engagement
Our Values as a Community
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The School of Computer Science is a collective and expansive community committed to welcoming everyone and achieving excellence in the instruction, research and application of computer science. We work to ensure equal access for all students, staff and faculty.
Vision
To realize a vibrant SCS community, composed of individuals with different identities, experiences, ideas, disciplines, and research and teaching approaches; and to create an environment where each individual can reach their full potential.
Mission
To create a climate in SCS that supports all stakeholders including students, staff, faculty, alumni and visitors. In alignment with that goal, we strive to:
- Cultivate a transformational educational experience for students.
- Create a collaborative environment open to the free exchange of ideas.
- Maintain an academic environment that promotes confidence to work and study without fear of discrimination or sexual misconduct of any type.
- Foster a campus culture that reflects fundamental respect for different ways of living, working and learning.
Reach out to our team to join us in these efforts.
SCS Community
OurCS
Undergrads from around the country convene at OurCS: Women In Tech. Hosted by SCS, this annual workshop invites students to work on exploratory problems in the CS domain.
SCS at Tapia
SCS representatives connect with attendees at Tapia, an annual conference that celebrates diversity in computing.
SCS Pretty Good Race
Students race to the finish line at the SCS Pretty Good Race, held every year in Schenley Park.
Student Groups
From plushy mascots that build a sense of community in SCS courses to Mobot, an outdoor robotics competition open to everyone during Spring Carnival, there is no shortage of camaraderie on campus. Student groups, in particular, are a fun way to become an integral part of the SCS community. Two of our active groups include:
SCS4ALL
SCS4ALL is an initiative that works to develop social programs, professional activities and leadership opportunities to broaden interest and participation in computing
Student Opportunities
Conference Sponsorships
Each year, the Community Engagement office provides sponsorships for SCS students to attend conferences within the United States. Traditionally, we send students to conferences like Grace Hopper, TAPIA and SHPE. Whenever possible, we provide sponsorship to a limited number of students to cover the cost of conference registration, travel, lodging and a per diem for meals during travel. Students who receive sponsorship may be expected to staff a booth for SCS during the conference.
SCS undergraduate and graduate students are encouraged to apply for sponsorship each spring.
Sponsorship Application Process
Students should be prepared to submit the following information to Community Engagement through the application form that will be sent via email each spring:
- A completed application form
- A link to your most current resume/CV
The Community Engagement office then reviews applications and makes selections for the fall conference schedule. Preference is given to students who have not attended conferences previously. You must be a current student when attending conferences.
Questions about the process? Contact Michelle Lane.
Volunteer Opportunities
Our office is always seeking student volunteers to support the work we do. If you are interested in getting involved with our programming, we welcome your participation and help in staffing events scheduled throughout the academic year. Contact Michelle Lane if you'd like to work with us!
CS Pathways
CS Pathways creates computer science opportunities for all students, from all backgrounds. Signature programs and initiatives include:
CS Scholars (for rising high school juniors)
CS Scholars is a four-week deep dive into computer science, combining classroom instruction, hands-on projects, faculty lectures and industry engagement with leading tech companies. This fully funded, merit-based program gives students the opportunity to explore computing with CMU faculty, staff and researchers, gaining mentorship and developing real-world technical skills.
AI Scholars (for rising high school seniors)
AI Scholars is a four-week deep dive into the world of artificial intelligence and machine learning. This fully funded, merit-based program explores the fundamentals of AI through Python coding, data, algorithms and evaluation. Scholars engage in classroom instruction, research projects, faculty lectures and industry experiences, taking an impactful step toward their future in tech.
STEM Ambassadors
STEM Ambassadors hires and trains local teens to provide high-quality STEM education to middle school learners across Pittsburgh. This program is a partnership with Boys and Girls Clubs of Western Pennsylvania and Homewood Children’s Village.
Visit the CS Pathways website to learn more.
Inclusive Excellence at CMU
The concept of belonging is foundational to CMU’s mission. It is interwoven into the essence of our university, helping to shape our values, policies and practices.