AI and Scholarship Applications
We’re aware that there are mixed opinions on the use of AI for scholarship applications. Some sources encourage using AI for idea generation, others for all-out writing of college and/or scholarship essays.
We want your authentic voice, personality and uniqueness to shine through in your essays. We want you to tell your story in your voice from your perspective.
Writing is thinking – and practicing your writing will set you up for success no matter where you go, but certainly if you’re selected as a Norlin Scholar, because our courses require original, creative thinking and they encourage intentional development of written and verbal communication. There is no other way to develop your authentic voice. We aim to create an environment where you can self-reflect, practice authenticity, and build trust.
Here are some useful guidelines borrowed from the :
“What are some examples of unethical uses of AI for . . . essays?
- Copying and pasting directly from an AI generator
- Relying on AI generated content to outline or draft an essay
- Replacing your unique voice and tone with AI generated content
- Translating an essay written in another language
What are some examples of ethical uses of AI for . . . essays?
- Using AI tools, like Grammarly or Microsoft Editor, to review grammar and spelling of your completed essays
- Generating questions or exercises to help kick start the brainstorming process”
They conclude with this helpful, general rule:
“. . . ask yourself whether it would be ethical to have a trusted adult perform the same task you are asking of ChatGPT. Would a teacher be able to review your essay for grammatical and spelling errors? Of course! Would that same teacher write a draft of an essay for you to tweak and then submit? Definitely not.”
Please keep all of this—and our other essay writing tips—in mind when you apply for the Norlin Scholarship.
You’ll find more information on AI and the CU Honor Code here: