📖 Google Summer of Code (GSoC) Application Guide

🚀 Want to write a strong GSoC proposal? Follow this guide to increase your chances of being selected as a contributor for BIRDS Open Source!

🏆 What Makes a Strong Proposal?

A great GSoC proposal should:
✅ Clearly define the problem and how your project will solve it
✅ Demonstrate your understanding of the project scope
✅ Show a realistic timeline with milestones
✅ Highlight your skills and past experience
✅ Include a plan for testing, documentation, and community engagement

✍️ How to Structure Your Proposal

1️⃣ Personal Information

  • Full Name
  • GitHub/Portfolio Link
  • Email & Preferred Contact Method
  • Timezone & Available Working Hours

2️⃣ Synopsis

  • What is your project about? (1-2 sentences)
  • Why is it important?
  • What problem does it solve?

3️⃣ Benefits to the Community

  • How will this project help BIRDS Open Source?
  • How will it benefit the open-source space community?
  • How will the final output be used after GSoC?

4️⃣ Deliverables & Milestones

  • List the key goals and features you aim to complete
  • Break your timeline into 3 phases:
    • Community Bonding Period: Research, setup, first contributions
    • Phase 1: Develop core functionality, initial testing
    • Phase 2: Expand features, refine implementation
    • Final Phase: Complete, test, and document

5️⃣ Technical Details

  • What technologies will you use? (Languages, frameworks, tools)
  • How will you implement your solution?
  • Any potential challenges, and how will you overcome them?

6️⃣ Previous Experience

  • Have you contributed to open source before? (Not mandatory but helpful)
  • Relevant projects you’ve worked on (GitHub links if possible)
  • Why are you interested in BIRDS Open Source & space projects?

7️⃣ Commitment & Availability

  • How many hours per week can you dedicate?
  • Do you have any other commitments during GSoC?

🎯 Tips for Writing a Strong Proposal

✅ Be Clear & Concise – Get to the point, avoid unnecessary details
✅ Show Initiative – Try contributing before applying (fix a bug, improve docs)
✅ Engage with Mentors – Ask questions, discuss ideas before submission
✅ Be Realistic – Propose a plan you can complete within GSoC’s timeframe
✅ Format Properly – Use bullet points, headings, and paragraphs for readability

📅 Next Steps

📌 Join Our Community – Ask mentors for feedback on your draft
📌 Submit Early – Avoid last-minute issues!
📌 Follow Up – Stay engaged and show your enthusiasm

📨 Need Help? Contact Us!
📌 GitHub Discussions: BIRDS Open Source
📌 Email: birds_opensource@lean-sat.org

🚀 We look forward to your application! Good luck!