Snake & spear
where strength meets sharpness
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Snake and Spear is more than just a scholarship. It’s a space where Midshipmen are empowered to think critically and engage in meaningful discussions on the most pressing issues facing the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps.
By grappling with these real-world challenges, Midshipmen are equipped to become well-rounded, informed officers who can make valuable contributions in the Fleet.
Currently, the Snake & Spear scholarship is available to Midshipmen enrolled as full-time students in the FAMU-FSU NROTC program.
This is a privately funded and managed scholarship. It is not afflliated with the DON or any university. The statements, views and information provided on this website do not represent the DON.
The Founders
Taija Griffin, USN
Taija commissioned in 2015 as a Surface Warfare Officer, where she earned her warfare pin and deployed twice to the Western Pacific. In 2019, she was accepted for lateral transfer into the Public Affairs community. As a PAO, she supported the civilian evacuation from Afghanistan, U.S. Navy support to NATO amid the Russia-Ukraine war, and major humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions including the DOD’s support for the Turkish earthquakes , and civilian evacuations from Sudan. She is currently attending San Diego State University for graduate education.
Patrick Griffin, USMCR
Patrick commissioned in 2015 and entered the Naval Flight Program in Pensacola, FL. In 2017, he left flight school to pursue a new career as a Ground Supply Officer. In 2020, he deployed to Kuwait with 2nd Battalion 5th Marines in support of Operation Inherent Resolve. In 2023, Patrick transferred into the Marine Corps Reserve to as a Civil Affairs Officer. He is currently working on his Master’s degree in international relations at Harvard University’s Extension School.
2024 Winners!
MIDN 4/C Moyer
MIDN 3/C Ringvelski
more guidelines
Guidelines for AI use
- AI has limits: Think critically about its outputs and don't rely on it blindly.
- Give credit where credit is due: Clearly cite any AI-generated content in your work.
- Cheating is a no-go: Don't use AI to plagiarize or create fake work.
- Be upfront: Be honest about your AI use in your application and interviews.
Honesty reminders
- All work submitted for the scholarship application must be your own original work, except for properly cited sources in APA format.
- Do not submit work that has been previously submitted for another purpose.
Violation notes
- Disqualification from the scholarship application process.
- Reporting to FAMU-FSU NROTC leadership.
By applying for the Snake & Spear scholarship, you agree to abide by these guidelines. We encourage you to use technology responsibly and ethically, demonstrating the strong moral character and academic integrity expected of future Navy and Marine Corps officers.
Tips for writing
Always cite your work!
More tips can be found HERE
PICK A CENTRAL IDEA
Your thesis should fit into one sentence and should be placed in your introduction. Everything in your paper should center around the thesis. You should aim to tie each of your paragraphs back to your central thesis. This will ensure your paper is organized and keep your reader focused.
YOUR INTRODUCTION
Your introduction is a very simple equation. First write 1-2 sentences to “set the scene.” Draw the reader in with something interesting that ties into your thesis. Next, add your thesis sentence. Make sure it is clear, so that the reader will easily understand your position. After that, write three topic sentences that encapsulate each of your three arguments.
YOUR ARGUMENT
Your arguments are the “meat” of your essay. In order to help organize the essay for both yourself and the reader, use subtitles.
YOUR CONCLUSION
Your conclusion should be the synthesis of all your arguments that reaffirms your thesis. An easy way to write a conclusion is to consider how the new evidence you presented in your argument affects your central thesis.
FAQ
Email
SnakeSpearEssays@gmail.com
Frequently asked questions
Q. How often will essay contests occur?
A. This is an annual essay contest that offers cash prizes for winners. The annual essay topics are posted on this website. Winners will be notified by email.
Q. Can I donate to Snake and Spear?
A. We are not taking any donations at the moment. We are working to build a system that ensures full transparency for donors. Check back soon for updates.
Q. What criteria do you use to judge essays?
A. Essays are assessed based on the following criteria:
- Completion
- Creativity
- Level of research supported analysis
- Grammar, spelling, and format
Q. Does Snake and Spear have any affiliations?
A. No. We are both FAMU NROTC alumni with a goal of giving back to students from our alma mater. This is a personal philanthropic endeavor and not associated or representative of the Navy, Marine Corps, or any other private or government organization.