2026 Suhirtha Raj Scholarship in Computer Science

The family of Suhirtha Raj established The Suhirtha Raj Scholarship in 2021 to honor the memory of their beloved daughter and sister, who passed away unexpectedly in June 2020 following her junior year as a computer science student. She was a creative, fun loving and a compassionate human being who believed in equality for all. Her radiant smile, helping hands and fierce determination was an inspiration to many. She made her mark not only as an excelling student and an aspiring computer professional, but also as an accomplished dancer and a passionate teacher of other art forms including calligraphy. Suhirtha’s unconditional love and support made a lasting impact in the lives of her family, friends, and peers. Throughout her time at UIUC, as both a student and a teaching assistant, Suhirtha used every opportunity she got to teach and mentor fellow students. She was steadfast in her mission to ensure that each student she met had an opportunity to achieve, as she believed that success should be within everyone’s reach. She also believed in promoting and supporting women in STEM by being an active participant in organizations such as Women in Engineering. This scholarship is offered in hopes that the recipient will be able to pursue their dreams, despite the unique obstacles and challenges that stand in their path.

Eligibility: Applicants shall be undergraduates (freshmen, sophomores, or juniors) studying Computer Science at the Siebel School. Preference may be given to current freshmen. Preference shall be given to Computer Science students with a demonstrated financial need that are involved with or have an interest in the Society of Women Engineers, the Women in Engineering Program, or other similar or successor programs or organizations.

Required Materials:

- Unofficial transcripts for your current degree program at U of I. Unofficial transcripts can be obtained for free at: https://apps.uillinois.edu/selfservice/

- Up-to-date CV or resume.

- Essay that answers the following (500 words maximum):

Please explain your involvement with and/or interest in the Society of Women Engineers, the Women in Engineering Program, or other similar or successor programs or organizations. If you are not involved with these programs/organizations, explain in detail how you plan to become involved.

Award
$1,000.00
Deadline
04/26/2026
Supplemental Questions
  1. Please confirm the following: "I am a freshmen, sophomore, or junior studying Computer Science at the Siebel School. I believe that I have a demonstrated financial need and am involved with or have an interest in the Society of Women Engineers, the Women in Engineering Program, or other similar or successor programs or organizations."
  2. Please provide unofficial transcripts for your current degree program at U of I.
  3. Please upload your current CV or resume.
  4. Please provide an answer to the following: explain your involvement with and/or interest in the Society of Women Engineers, the Women in Engineering Program, or other similar or successor programs or organizations. If you are not involved with these programs/organizations, explain in detail how you plan to become involved.