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We are very pleased to announce the first version of the Joomla! Student Outreach Program, or JSOP. The purpose of this program is to provide a structure that allows students to gain real-world software development experience working with world-class mentors on projects of value to the Joomla! community.

This is an all-volunteer program. Students, mentors, and administrators work on a volunteer basis, although there will be cool t-shirts and achievement certificates for students who successfully complete one or more projects.

Here are some questions and answers about the program.

What is JSOP?

JSOP provides a structure that allows students to work in teams with other students and with mentors on real-world projects related to Joomla! development. Initially this program will focus on college and university students. -Elin Waring 4/22/10 7:53 AM

What are the benefits for students?

1. Experience: Real-world experience working on real problems.
2. Knowledge: Work with and learn from world-class mentors. We have a fantastic team of mentors who are anxious to get started.
3. Satisfaction: See your work incorporated into real software used by many people all over the world.
4. Recognition: Be recognized for your contributions to the team and to the Joomla! project.
5. Community: Be a part of a fantastic community.

What are the benefits for mentors?

1. Satisfaction: Helping teach, guide, and nurture students as they make the transition from the classroom to real-life work.
2. Satisfaction: Helping the Joomla! project recruit new talent into the community.
3. Satisfaction: Helping complete important work for the project.

What are the benefits for the Joomla! project?

1. New Talent: JSOP is one way the project can recruit new development talent into the community.
2. Community: By fostering working in teams, JSOP will help strengthen the ties that connect community members to each other and to the project.
3. Working Code and Docs: The work product of JSOP projects is expected to improve the Joomla! software and documentation.

What projects with JSOP students work on?

JSOP projects are divided into long projects (3 months duration) and short projects (one month duration). The projects are listed on the JSOP Projects Page in the wiki.

Can students work on Joomla! outside of JSOP?

Yes. Many students contribute to Joomla! in many ways, whether as part of a team or individually. JSOP is intended to provide one option for students and in no way is intended to limit what students can do in the project.

What is the time line for JSOP?

The time line runs from April 26, when applications open, to August 31, when the projects are completed. A detailed time line table is available here.

How do students apply?

The student application process is very simple. Just fill out the application here and email the completed application to this email address: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

Who are the project mentors?

We have a fantastic group of project mentors. A complete list of the project mentors and brief biographical sketches will be available soon.