Speaker:
Prathamesh Jakkula
(Open Source Contributor & Community Mentor)

Date:
11 March 2026

Time:
8:15 PM – 9:15 PM

Venue:
Online Via Google Meet - https://meet.google.com/kvy-icqn-xgb?authuser=0

Mode:
On-Site Interactive Session

About the Session

This session is designed to introduce students to Google Summer of Code (GSoC) and guide them on how to start contributing to open-source projects.

Google Summer of Code is a global program supported by Google that encourages students to contribute to real-world open-source software projects under the guidance of experienced mentors.

Through this session, students will understand:

• What Google Summer of Code is and how it works
• How students can start contributing to open-source projects
• The step-by-step GSoC registration process
• How to select organizations and projects
• Tips and strategies to increase chances of getting selected
• How open-source contributions strengthen a student's technical portfolio

The session will also include practical guidance on preparing for GSoC, understanding project requirements, and learning how to collaborate with global developer communities.

Why This Session is Important for Students

Participating in Google Summer of Code helps students:

• Gain real-world software development experience
• Work with international open-source organizations
• Build a strong GitHub and developer portfolio
• Learn collaboration and industry-level development workflows
• Improve their problem-solving and coding skills

Students who contribute to open-source projects and programs like GSoC often stand out during technical interviews, as companies highly value real-world project experience and community contributions.

Session Format

The session will include:

• Introduction to Google Summer of Code
• Live explanation of the application process
• Guidance on starting open-source contributions
• Practical tips to get selected in GSoC
• Interactive Q&A with the speaker