Five CS Majors Selected as Inaugural Squarepoint Foundation Scholars

A new scholarship program is helping a group of computer science (CS) students cover the cost of completing their undergraduate degrees at Georgia Tech.

The Squarepoint Foundation is providing $100,000 in funding for five CS majors who have demonstrated financial need.

The scholarships are part of the foundation's efforts to advance STEM education and research. This is the first time the foundation has funded scholarships at Georgia Tech.

The students named as recipients of the inaugural Squarepoint Foundation Scholarship awards are:

• Patrick Azu
• Joseph Orofino
• Aidan Connolly
• Jessie Xu
• Daniel Lin

These third-year students will receive $10,000 a year for two years as Squarepoint Foundation scholars. A committee led by School of Computing Instruction (SCI) Inaugural Chair Olufisayo Omojokun selected the inaugural scholarship cohort.

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"Many thanks to the Squarepoint Foundation Board of Trustees for bringing these scholarships to Georgia Tech.

"These students are among our best and brightest. This funding helps ensure they will complete their studies and be ready for the workforce where their talent and skills are in high demand," said Omojokun.

This is undoubtedly the case for Jessie Xu. She's made the Dean's list twice since transferring to Georgia Tech from Georgia State University in 2022. But it hasn't been easy. Her family has been financially stressed, and she has had difficulty covering school-related expenses.

"This scholarship has been a very significant help to me and my family. It motivates me to stay committed to my education because I will have less mental stress for the remaining two years of my college experience. 

"This scholarship not only means support for my aspirations, but it also recognizes my capabilities, and it makes me feel that I deserve to move forward with more determination for my future," said Xu.

Joseph Orofino shares Xu's renewed motivation thanks to the Squarepoint Foundation. Orofino, the head teaching assistant for Data Structures and Algorithms (CS 1332), believes the scholarship can help him reach his full academic potential.

"The Foundation's support allows me to approach my education with a clear mind, a renewed enthusiasm, and a revitalized determination to excel.

"With financial pressure alleviated, I can fully embrace myself in my academic journey, confident in my ability to make the most of the amazing opportunities that lie ahead," said Orofino, who also serves as president of the Google Developers student club.

The scholarship selection committee included SCI Associate Chair Mary Hudachek-Buswell, College of Computing Director of Undergraduate Advising Daurette Joseph, and Associate Director Office of Scholarship and Financial Aid Gina Summers, along with Omojokun.

The Squarepoint Foundation Scholarship is open to all rising 3rd year CS students. 

"We are delighted to provide scholarships as a way to support students on their educational journey by helping to alleviate some tuition burden, which can be a barrier to access," said Allison Henry, Squarepoint Foundation manager.

Founded in 2021, the Squarepoint Foundation is focused on helping communities around the world. Currently, it supports local populations by partnering with charities, advancing research and education in STEM, and helping in times of crisis by contributing to relief efforts for events that affect the world as they arise.

With support from philanthropic organizations like the Squarepoint Foundation, alumni, parents, friends, and corporations, Georgia Tech is securing the resources that will help achieve the most ambitious goals in the Institute's history as part of Transforming Tomorrow: The Campaign for Georgia Tech.