GitHub Education opens applications for its August 2021 Campus Experts cohort

GitHub Education is now accepting applications for the next generation of Campus Experts—student leaders who build and nurture technical communities at their schools. The program is open to students at post-secondary institutions who are at least 18 years old and have held a GitHub account for a minimum of six months. Whether you are growing an established community or launching a new one, the program offers leadership training, event resources, stickers, cheat sheets, and other support designed to help student organizers run effective and engaging activities.

Applications are open through August 29, 2021. All applicants will be notified of their status and next steps on September 13, 2021.

Why the program matters now

Campus engagement has shifted significantly over the past year, and running events remotely brings its own set of challenges—unstable connections, moderator availability, and lagging livestreams. The Campus Experts Program is built to help bridge that gap, providing the practical tools and training needed to organize events and maintain community momentum in a changing environment. The program recognizes the tangible impact student leaders have on their campuses and aims to help both those leaders and their communities thrive.

A revamped application process

Applicants who submitted in February 2021 will notice that several questions have been updated. Based on feedback from previous applicants, the revised questions are more descriptive, with clearer and more concise wording. The new prompts focus on how program benefits would help you strengthen your community, meet your goals, and create welcoming experiences for all participants.

Campus Experts come from diverse backgrounds, but they share a deep passion for technology. The program has grown substantially since its 2016 start as a small, handpicked group, and now includes student leaders from more than 35 countries.

Tips for a standout application

As you prepare your application, consider the following guidance to help your submission stand out:

  • Review the Campus Experts website before applying. Familiarize yourself with the program’s mission, benefits, and the stories of current participants.
  • Identify a specific struggle your community faces, and explain how the program’s resources would help you address it and increase your impact.
  • Highlight what makes your community unique—be specific about your context and goals.
  • Log in to GitHub Global Campus and look up the Campus Expert nearest to you. Reach out to ask about their experience and how they built or grew their community.

With the fall semester approaching, this is a chance to take your campus leadership to the next level. Apply to become a GitHub Campus Expert before August 29.