Before contributing and getting started with GSoC we need to know about open source.

1).What is OpenSource?

⎯ The general idea is people take some sort of project that they've written and put it online on a platform like GitHub and anyone in the world can see that code and also potentially use it, modify it, enhance it, and make changes to it.

2). What is GSoC? ⎯

Gsoc is an online mentorship program that matches beginner contributors to open-source software development with mentors from open-source projects. Gsoc contributes write code on " real world * software projects which are used by thousands/millions of people all over the globe.

It is probably well-known to everyone by now. In case you don't know, here's a picture to explain.

more info: google.github.io/gsocguides/student

3). Who is GSoC for?

👉 Contributers New or beginner contributors who want to get started with open sources and get hands dirty (Means learning by contributing to it) .

👉 18 yrs or older Participents are 18 yrs or older .

👉 Learning Those who are interested in learning new skills.

👉 Community Developers who want to be part of an open-source community and get connected with like-minded people.

4). How does GSoC work?

Google Summer of Code (GSoC) is a program that offers students an opportunity to work on open-source software projects over the summer. Students apply to participate in the program, and if accepted, they are paired with a mentor from an open-source organization. The student works on the project over the course of the summer and receives a stipend for their work. At the end of the summer, the student presents their work at a final evaluation, and if the work is deemed successful, the student receives a final payment.

5). Changes in GSoC '23

GSoC is now open to beginners in open-source software development.

# Tips One thing to keep in mind if you want to increase your chances of getting selected for organizations ⎯ Try to contribute to a project that is a little bit difficult.

Here are a few tips for participating in Google Summer of Code (GSoC):

1) Start early: Begin researching and applying to open-source organizations as soon as possible, as the competition for spots can be fierce.

2) Find a good mentor: A good mentor can make a huge difference in your GSoC experience, so take the time to find an organization and mentor that aligns with your interests and goals.

3) Communicate regularly: Make sure to communicate regularly with your mentor and the organization to ensure that you are on track and making progress on your project.

4) Be proactive: Don't be afraid to take the lead and propose new ideas or approaches to your project. This shows that you are engaged and invested in the project.

5) Stay organized: Keep track of your work and progress, and document everything thoroughly. This will help you stay on track and make it easier to evaluate your work at the end of the summer.

Google only provides a handful of slots to Orgs, so they can't select everyone who applies for it. So if you contribute to a project that is a little bit difficult or only a handful of students are contributing, then the chances get increased. Orgs like TensorFlow are super high-profile projects with lots and lots of contributors again even if the project itself is difficult there are just so many more people who know what TensorFlow is versus if you pick some other open source project. If fewer people have heard of that then they are fewer folks who you're going to be competing against for a specific allocation on that in that organization.

## pro tips

Things to do before contributing to GSoC ⎯ ・Getting involved beforehand and doing contributions. ・Once you've selected an organization, start using the project. ・Try to understand what problem the project is actually solving. ・Now, Start learning about the project.

Many of the organizations from GSoC '22 are likely to return for GSoC '23. So here is the list of GSoC '22 Orgs - summerofcode.withgoogle.com/programs/2022/o.. .

If you want to know more about GSoC ’22 Orgs - check out this playlist - youtube.com/playlist?list=PLxNYxgaZ8RscKC8N.. .

List of GSoC ’22 Projects ⎯ summerofcode.withgoogle.com/programs/2022/p.. .

GSoC ’23 Timeline ⎯ developers.google.com/open-source/gsoc/time..23-_1800_utc .

Benefits of Contributing to GSoC ⎯

There are many benefits to participating in Google Summer of Code (GSoC) as a contributor. These can include:

Earning a stipend : GSoC provides a stipend to students who are accepted into the program, which can be a great way to earn money over the summer.

Working on interesting projects : GSoC provides an opportunity to work on a wide range of open-source projects, which can be a great way to gain experience and learn new skills.

Building a portfolio : Participating in GSoC can provide a valuable addition to your portfolio, showcasing your skills and abilities to potential employers.

Connecting with others : GSoC provides an opportunity to connect with other students, mentors, and members of the open-source community, which can be a great way to network and build relationships.

Contributing to open-source : By participating in GSoC, you will be contributing to the open-source community and helping to advance important projects and initiatives.

Howdy! I'm Aravind, and I'm gonna apply for GSoC '23. Documenting the journey and sharing all the useful resources here on Hasnode.com

Follow me at twitter.com/aravindstwt