I really wanted to do GSoC last year. However, I am in the Southern Hemisphere, and in contrast to the long Northern Hemisphere summer holiday, during this time we have a short winter holiday of only a few weeks. This year I still want to do it, but I have the same problem — April to August is simply not a workable time period for me.
Thus: does anyone know if there are similar initiatives to connect students with mentors, but with more flexible timing?
(Or, y’know, I guess I could just contact the people listed on the GSoC page informally… but it would be nice if there were something more organised!)
Word of advice from somebody who lived in Europe during GSoC and also did not had 3 months free: Still do it if you are young. It's invaluable and sometimes even more important for a career in tech than the degree you get at the end of your study (for me it was the case). Would not be were I am without GSoC 2011.
one of the more recent changes is that the program is more flexible. it's no longer only 3 months full-time, but there is also the option to work on projects that are only half-size, and i believe they can be done in the same full time frame. look at the gsoc site for the specific rules and look for projects that might fit. talk to mentors and see how you can fit your time for a project like that.
Thus: does anyone know if there are similar initiatives to connect students with mentors, but with more flexible timing?
(Or, y’know, I guess I could just contact the people listed on the GSoC page informally… but it would be nice if there were something more organised!)