1 | Guidelines How to Apply for GSA Program 2014
Table of Content Content
Page
Introduction about Google Student Ambassador (GSA) Program & GSA Vietnam
2
Application Process of GSA Program 2014
3
Frequently Asked Questions
6
Experience Sharing by GSA Vietnam 2013
8
Contact
12
This guideline is prepared and created by Google Student Ambassadors Vietnam 2013 in order to provide applicants an insight into the application process for GSA Program 2014. It is mainly extracted from the official website about GSA Program: https://www.google.com/edu/programs/student-ambassador-program/ I would like to express my gratitude to other GSAs in Vietnam, both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, Googlers in Vietnam and Singapore as well as other Google Communities (Google Business Group and Google Developer Group) in Hanoi for helping me complete this guideline. In case of any inquiries, please feel free to contact me – Mr. Lương Mạnh Hà via email haluong@gsavietnam.org Thank you very much and Good Luck to Applicants of GSA Program 2014!
2 | Guidelines How to Apply for GSA Program 2014 I. INTRODUCTION ABOUT GSA PROGRAM, GSA VIETNAM The Google Student Ambassador Program is an opportunity for students to act as liaisons between Google and their universities. These ambassadors:
Learn about innovative Google products and programs.
Plan and host fun events on campus.
Act as a campus contact for Google teams.
Help Google better understand each university’s culture.
GSA Program firstly came to South-East Asia region in 2012, and Vietnam has joined in this program since 2013 with other 7 countries. At the moment, there are 8 GSAs in Vietnam in total: 5 GSAs in Hanoi, and 3 other GSAs in Ho Chi Minh City. A numbers of events hosted by GSA Vietnam are about 25 in total up to now, including both online and offline methods, with the participation of over 2000 students in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City in particular and Vietnam in general. GSA’s slogan: “Do cool things that matter!”
3 | Guidelines How to Apply for GSA Program 2014 II. APPLICATION PROCESS OF GSA PROGRAM 2014 1. Criteria Currently a full-time undergraduate/postgraduate student at universities in Vietnam. Available 10 hours per month to spend on Google evangelist work Familiar with Google products including but not limited to Google Docs, Chrome, Search, and YouTube An active Google+ user Involved with student organizations and activities 2. Benefits Acquire more knowledge about smart Google applications, increasing the productivity of learning and working. Meet and learn from Googlers from all over the world, experiencing the unique culture of Google. Participate in the broad network of GSAs in the region and around the globe. Connect with other communities of Google in Vietnam (Google Business Group, Google Developer Group) as well as in the region and the world. 3. Process a/ Preparation Proof of university enrollment (with the approval from the school) - need translating if in Vietnamese 1 short video (about 30s) to introduce about yourself uploaded to YouTube 1-2 Letters of Recommendation (from lecturer, studying advisor, employer …) Links to Google communities’ activities in Vietnam that you have participated in organizing (GSA, GSG, GBG, GSG – if necessary) Links to your own mobile app on PlayStore, AppEngine, API (if necessary)
4 | Guidelines How to Apply for GSA Program 2014 b/ Online Application Visit the website www.gsa.withgoogle.com and sign in with you Google account. You should choose the one which you usually use, because all updates related to GSA Program and tasks as a GSA in the future will be sent to this email address. Click Accept to authorize GSA Program to access your account. Application Form for GSA Program 2014 has 4 tabs (Personal, Google, Google Student Ambassador, Extras). After having finished each tab, you need to click Save & Continue in the end to continue completing other tabs. Otherwise, your data that you have just filled in will be lost. In Personal tab, you will be required for personal information (full name, date of birth, university …) In addition, you also need to upload Proof of university enrollment (should be in .pdf file).
In Google tab, you will share your 30s video that you prepared on your own to introduce yourself on YouTube. This is one of the most important parts, so it is advisory that you put great efforts into creating a quality video, even “crazy”, to build a positive image in Googlers’ hearts. In addition, if you are a member of Google Communities in Vietnam, do not forget to mention
here:
Former
GSA,
Former
GDG
Manager/Member,
Former
GBG
Manager/Member, Current GSA Advisor, Current GDG Member, Current GDG Manager, Current GBG Member, Current GBG Manager. In Extras tab later, you need to provide links to several events that you have participated in Organizing Committee with these communities. For other categories marked “Optional”, you should not leave it blank. Try to share your personal opinion on those questions asked, so that Google can understand more about you in accessing process.
Regarding Google Student Ambassador tab, you will face some questions related to the time you become an official GSA. You are required to present an idea about a Google event at university, and how successful your event will achieve in case of zero budget. This is also another important part, so you need to focus and make your answer concise and straight-forward (usually under 300 words/answer)
5 | Guidelines How to Apply for GSA Program 2014 In Extras tab, for categories 1, 5 and 6, you need to provide evidence for clarification in case you mention related content previously. You will be required to submit at least 01 letter of recommendation here to the Google’s system. You should ask your professor, faculty dean or employer who understands you most for assistance in this part. For other categories marked “Optional”, you should not leave it blank. Try to share your personal opinion on those questions asked, so that Google can understand more about you. This is the last chance for you to impress the assessors in application form, so you also need to stay focused, but not lengthy (can be listed under bullet form)
After competing all the parts, just click Submit to send your application form to Google. If you do not want to submit right away, you can click on Save as Draft button to save and correct it later. However, you should remember the deadline for application is 24/04/2014 (no late submission accepted).
6 | Guidelines How to Apply for GSA Program 2014 III. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS “GSA Q&A” by GSA Vietnam is available 24/7 to answer all the questions about GSA and GSA Program 2014 as well as helps advice you to become outstanding applicants to Google. You just need to fill in your questions with your email address here: http://goo.gl/zQUCJ2 Then you will get the answer on Google+ at Foreign Trade University
1. My English is not very good, so can I apply for this program? - In order to become a GSA, you do not have to get IELTS or TOEFL test. All you need is the ability to communicate well in English with others, including Googlers, GSAs from different countries and also Google Communities there. In addition, after chosen as a GSA, you will have an opportunity to fly to The Philippines to attend a training summit, during which you can learn and communicate in English with other talented GSAs in the region. 2. Is a 30-second video about myself in English? If it is about introducing myself with interests, can you suggest anything so that I can make myself more outstanding? - Self-introduction video is one of keys that lead to your obtaining permission. Thus, you should put many efforts in producing this. It does not have to be formal, because Google needs someone creative, different and even “crazy”. On page Google+ at Foreign Trade University, we usually update one video of successful applicants for GSA Program last year everyday, so do not forget to visit us. 3. What is Proof of Enrollment? - It can be your Student ID Card, or Certificate of Your Participation in Full-time Undergraduate/Graduate Program by your university. 4. If I do not use all Google products, or have not had any internship at Google, can I be at a disadvantage compared to other applicants? - All of these above are optional, so do not worry too much about your lack. You can try to improve them instead, starting with using more Google products then. 5. Does Letter of Recommendation need something special (like red stamp or something)? - Letter of Recommendtion is a letter from a person who understands you the most, including your lecturer, study advisor, or employer. It does not have any requirement about content and layout. You can Google some samples for reference first if you still have no idea.
7 | Guidelines How to Apply for GSA Program 2014 6. Are there any other rounds after Application Form such as interviews? If my application is not accepted this year, can I have any chances to become a GSA? - GSA Program has only 1 round, so you need to make it to the full of your ability. In case you cannot become a GSA this year, you can participate in Google Student Group – GSG established by GSAs and understand more about Google as well as get involved in many activities with GSAs. Therefore, your chance of being chosen for GSA Program will become higher. 7. In Extra tab, what are PlayStore Apps, Appengine, APIs? If I do not have any of these, what should I do? - Do not worry about these. Just fill in “N/A” if you do not have.
There are many other interesting questions as well as answers from GSA Vietnam on Google at Foreign Trade University, so don’t forget to Follow and +1 to keep contact with us!
8 | Guidelines How to Apply for GSA Program 2014 IV. EXPERIENCE SHARING FROM GSA VIETNAM 2013 “GSA Program has really changed me a lot. From preparation time for application to the moment participating in Search Summit in Indonesia, and after nearly 10 months with Google experience in every corner of my life, I have become more mature in the way of thinking as well as the method of working. I have a chance to meet many Googlers from all over the world, especially talented Vietnamese individuals, experience Google’s unique culture, and participate in host many events in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City with the support from Google and its communities in Vietnam. Many students are afraid that the title Google Student Ambassador is too unreachable, but I believe that it is suitable for any young individual with high enthusiasm, ability and also Googleyness. My advice for this year’s applicants for GSA Program is: Be Yourself, Feel Confident and Shine! All the best for you!” Lương Mạnh Hà – Hanoi Foreign Trade University
“Becoming a Google Student Ambassador is not only a valuable opportunity but also a great experience of passion for contribution. After the training summit in Indonesia where I met and became inspired by many passionate individuals, such an ordinary student like me has turned into an energetic and strong person. Moreover,
when
cooperating
with
other
communities as well as Googlers, I can learn more about professional working style and discover my hidden abilities. As advice for students who want to become GSAs this year, I have 3 words for them: Be Passionate, Be Original, Be Confident.” Lê Hồng Thảo Quyên – International University (Ho Chi Minh City National University)
9 | Guidelines How to Apply for GSA Program 2014 “Since Google communities, including GSA Program, are established, they have significantly grown to strong ones. With many events hosted by GSA Vietnam up till now, the number of followers through social networks have rapidly increased. Google+ Community has over 500 active members, while GSA Vietnam’s page on Facebook received nearly 3,000 likes. During about 10 months, the program has gained more popularity in both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, which seems a success to us. However, the most meaningful success of this program is connect outstanding young individuals with enthusiasm and ability together. In addition to applying smart Google products in studying and working, we also share with our different communities through many kinds of events, bringing them the benefits of modern technology. So what are you waiting for to become a part of GSA Vietnam? ;)” Nguyễn Đức Minh Khôi – Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology
“Before becoming a GSA, Google is a very distant dream that I am never able to reach. However, after that when I met and learned from many gifted Googlers, I am aware that anything is possible as long as you are determined to try. GSA Program has brought me to numerous new friends with different perspectives and opened exciting opportunities for me. Believe me, don’t feel shy or small when applying for this invaluable program. Google is amazing, and life is even much more. When coming to Google, it’s like you Googling yourself, then it will lead you to many expected results. "Just do it!” Hà Thị Tú Phượng – National Economics University
10 | Guidelines How to Apply for GSA Program 2014 “Google is a surprising system. It not only helps us search for existing things but also discovers hidden talents in us. Now I learn that I can do many things that I have never dreamt of before, and even with far higher result when I put great efforts there. With Google, I can become “crazy” in any way I want. Becoming a GSA is one of the most unforgettable memories in my whole life. I have grown out of the little girl in the past with gradual process day after day. Thank you very much, Google! Be Yourself, be Googley!” Vũ An Khanh – Hanoi Foreign Trade University
“At the age of 18, I’m proud to become one of 8 GSA in Vietnam. New friends with great experience have added more meaning to my life. When working with other excellent individuals from all over the world, my horizon has been broadened. Professional
working
environment
full
of
talented people helps me become more mature. Google makes me understand that difficulty is a motive for innovation, and nothing is impossible. Thus, DO COOL THINGS THAT MATTER!” Trần Lê Ngọc Khánh – Hanoi Foreign Trade University
11 | Guidelines How to Apply for GSA Program 2014 “I used to be a shy girl who is always afraid of my limited
ability.
GSA
Program
is
the
first
international one that I had courage to apply for, just because it did not require high academic achievement but self-expression in the most original way. Admittedly, the reason why I was chosen is something mysterious to me all the time. However, there is one thing I’m sure of: Google can see your potential, even when you do not recognize. In addition to discovering myself more, I also learned how energetic and talented international individuals are thanks to GSA Program. Meanwhile Vietnamese students tend to carefully plan before actually doing something, those from other countries learn from experience after implementing their plans without wasting much time for planning. Therefore, “Don’t think too much, Do it instead!” Trịnh Thị Minh Hương – Hanoi Foreign Trade University
"Life is like a bicycle chain, and each event is a sprocket of its. No one knows which shape this chain will turn into until you connect all these sprockets together. Then it is possible that GSA Program can become one in your life. Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving - Albert Einstein” Cao Tấn Thành – Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology
12 | Guidelines How to Apply for GSA Program 2014 V. CONTACT If you have any inquiries, please feel free to reach GSA Vietnam through these channels: Website: gsavietnam.org Google+ page: a. gplus.to/GoogleatFTU b. gplus.to/GoogleAtHCMUT c. gplus.to/GoogleAtNEU d. gplus.to/GoogleAtIU Facebook page: facebook.com/gsavn YouTube Channel: youtube.com/gsavietnam Email: gsavietnam.org@gmail.com or team@gsavietnam.org