Science Systems and Applications, Inc. (SSAI) was created and established by Om and Saraswati
in 1977. A company whose foundation was, from the very beginning, not only built on family-
centered values, but has maintained an enduring diverse culture, which allows SSAI to attract
and retain highly qualified candidates who are experts in the fields of science, engineering,
information technology, and research. In 2012, Om and Saraswati founded the Bahethi Family
Foundation (BFF) to empower people in science and technology. The foundation’s purpose is
to continue to give back to communities to create and enable opportunities for others as it was
created and provided for Om and Saraswati Bahethi In an exemplary union of purpose and passion, SSAI and BFF are partnering to provide equitable opportunities to the STEM community. This collaboration isn’t just about funding scholarships;
it’s a launchpad for dreams. SSAI, in partnership with HBCU and MSI colleges and
universities, has crafted a specialized program that’s a beacon of hope and opportunity. This
immersive experience is designed for ambitious students, eager to expand their horizons.
Selected candidates will embark on a transformative journey, enhancing their knowledge and
skill sets through real-world training with leading experts from prestigious organizations like
NASA, NOAA, USDA, USAID, EPA, and NIH. This is not just education, it’s a fusion of academic
pursuits and practical, hands-on experience, tightly aligned with the student’s degree goals and
personal interests
Complementing this is the BFF Riya Bhakkad Memorial Scholarship Program, a beacon of
inclusivity and diversity in professional development. This initiative is a testament to
commitment to shattering barriers and implicit unconscious bias in recruitment, focused on
empowering underrepresented groups. It’s a step towards creating a diverse workforce,
enriched with highly qualified candidates from various backgrounds. This program does not just
aim to increase visibility for leaders in diversity; it’s about enhancing engagement and attracting talent from underrepresented and disabled communities. Together, SSAI and BFF are not only
shaping futures but are also crafting a more inclusive and diverse professional world
Selected recipients will receive a scholarship award of up to $10,000 and participate in a 12-week program working with a mentor from SSAI in a remote environment for the duration of the program. Recipients will additionally have the opportunity to participate in on-site events at SSAI Headquarters and NASA Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, MD to present their end of program work to leadership.
In addition to technical training within STEM related fields, this program will also offer and support professional development training, fostering:
• Real world experience in a STEM related field
• Professional development-based learning/degree objectives
• Communication skills
• Presentation skills
• Networking and engagement with high-level stakeholders
• Project management and collaboration skills
• Growth mindset
The BFF Riya Bhakkad Memorial Fund in partnership with SSAI offers students the opportunity to collaborate with multiple federal organizations, working with experts who specialize in the fields of science, engineering and technology while building their knowledge and skill-set capacity through real-world professional development training. This program is open to currently enrolled college students at all degree levels who have a passion for increasing their professional skill set, knowledge and experience in STEM related fields.
Must be:
-University of Nevada Las Vegas
-University of North Dakota
-Morgan State University
-North Caroline A & T
-Christopher Newport University
| 2024 Season | 2123BC | Application Window | Selections Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | Portalion | Elitesimo | Aenean |
| Summer | Portalion | Elitesimo | Aenean |
| Fall | Portalion | Elitesimo | Aenean |
Application documents must be submitted, preferably in one combined PDF or Word document, to {BFF Shared Email} by {deadline}.
All applicants must submit the following:
1. Essay questions listed below, answered concisely on separate pages, with a MAXIMUM 200-500 word answer per question
-Provide 3 words that describe you and why.
-What are your personal goals in the next 5 years? How would this program help to support those goals?
-What do you think you can contribute to this program? What do you expect to receive?
-In your opinion, how do STEM careers make a societal difference in communities?|
-How would this scholarship award help support your financial academic needs?
2. One academic or professional recommendation letter
3. Your most recent unofficial transcripts
4. Current resume
Applications must be submitted to the email provided no later than 11:59 EST on XXXX. Applications submitted after the deadline WILL NOT be accepted or considered.