?? My Journey into Open Source and Google Summer of Code (GSoC) ??

My passion for open-source development began in my third year of undergrad. With no formal training in many technologies, I relied entirely on self-learning through contributions to open-source organizations. Seeing my code deployed live by these organizations was an incredibly rewarding experience that fueled my motivation to contribute even more.

?? Stepping Into the Open Source Community – FOSSASIA Summit 2017

With the guidance of a senior, I applied to the FOSSASIA Open Source Summit 2017 in Singapore. As part of my application, I developed a web app for organizing college elections and submitted it for review. To my excitement, my submission was selected, and I was invited as an international speaker at the summit.

Attending FOSSASIA 2017 was a transformative experience. The event brought together diverse speakers from across the world, presenting groundbreaking ideas on eco-friendly solutions, open-source technologies, and innovative products. More importantly, it was where I got to meet mentors from some of the most well-known open-source organizations—including those that participate in Google Summer of Code (GSoC).

At the summit, I had the privilege of meeting Bruno, my GSoC mentor from AOSSIE (Australian Open Source Software Innovation and Education). This interaction played a key role in building my network and deepening my understanding of GSoC, setting the stage for my selection the following year.

?? My Google Summer of Code (GSoC) Selection Process – 2018

After returning from FOSSASIA 2017, I began exploring past GSoC organizations and identifying project ideas that aligned with my interests. During this phase, I actively contributed to multiple organizations, including:

• FOSSASIA
• AOSSIE
• InterMine
• EmbedJS

I then drafted and refined my project proposals, discussing them with mentors to ensure alignment with the organizations' goals. This proactive engagement significantly increased my chances of selection.

In 2018, I was selected as a GSoC student developer for the project “MindTheWord” under AOSSIE. AOSSIE develops numerous impactful open-source projects, including CrowdAlert, CarbonFootprint, Agora, and more. You can explore AOSSIE’s projects here: aossie.gitlab.io.

?? What is GSoC and How Does It Work?

Google Summer of Code (GSoC) is an annual program that provides students enrolled in undergraduate or postgraduate programs with the opportunity to work on open-source projects under the guidance of experienced mentors.

GSoC Phases and Timeline

GSoC is a four-month program (from May to August) that consists of the following phases:

1. Community Bonding Period – Understanding the project, getting to know the mentors and community.
2. Phase 1 – Initial coding and milestones.
3. Phase 2 – Mid-term evaluation and continued development.
4. Final Phase – Completing the project and submitting the final deliverables.

?? Full details of GSoC: https://summerofcode.withgoogle.com/

?? GSoC Timeline: https://developers.google.com/open-source/gsoc/timeline

?? How to Increase Your Chances of Selection in GSoC

Many students believe that GSoC is only for Computer Science students, but that’s not true! Open source is for everyone, regardless of their academic background. Many organizations also work on hardware projects (e.g., Internet of Things, self-driving cars, and robotics).

If you want to maximize your chances of getting selected, follow these key strategies:

1. Start Early – Pre-timeline preparation is crucial. Instead of waiting for GSoC to open applications, research organizations that have consistently participated in GSoC over the past few years.
2. Engage with Organizations – Approach organization mentors, join discussion groups, and start actively participating in their communities.
3. Contribute Before Applying – Begin by submitting a few pull requests (PRs) to show your commitment and understanding of the project. This will strengthen your application significantly.
4. Network and Learn – Attend open-source summits (like I did at FOSSASIA 2017) where you can meet mentors, contributors, and past GSoC students. Many successful GSoC participants built connections before submitting their proposals.
5. Draft and Refine Your Proposal – Collaborate with mentors to refine your proposal before submission. A well-structured, detailed proposal sets you apart from other applicants.

?? My Takeaway from GSoC and Open Source

The best part about open-source development is the mentorship and support available at all times. It’s a collaborative learning experience, where you not only gain technical skills but also improve problem-solving and networking abilities.

If you're passionate about technology and innovation, take the leap into open-source contributions. Who knows? Your journey might lead you to global summits, incredible mentors, and life-changing opportunities—just like it did for me.

?? Happy Coding! ??