Illuminating the Path: Insights from an Informal Chat with an Open Source Professional

As part of my Outreachy internship journey, I recently had the privilege of engaging in an informal chat with Manaswini Das, a Software Engineer at Red Hat and an Outreachy alum from the MAY-AUG 2018 cohort. This conversation opened my eyes to new perspectives and opportunities in the open source world, providing valuable insights that will shape my future career path.

One of the key takeaways from our chat was the importance of maintaining an open mindset. She emphasized the significance of being open to learning, embracing opportunities, and not being afraid to try new things. In the ever-evolving landscape of technology and open source, this adaptability is crucial for growth and success.

A piece of advice that particularly resonated with me was about asking questions when stuck. She suggested showcasing what you have already attempted before seeking help. This approach not only demonstrates initiative but also helps in receiving more targeted and effective assistance. It's a skill I am eager to cultivate further in my open-source journey.

As someone navigating the path of a backend engineer, I was intrigued by Manaswini's emphasis on the importance of data structures and algorithms. She highlighted this as a fundamental skill set for backend development, reinforcing my commitment to deepening my knowledge in this area.

Perhaps the most eye-opening part of our conversation was learning about the diverse career opportunities in open source. She illuminated the landscape of paid roles within the open-source ecosystem - a realm I was not fully aware of before. This revelation has expanded my perspective on potential career paths and has me excited about the possibilities that lie ahead.

Generously, Manaswini shared several resourceful links and websites where I can explore and apply for paid open-source roles. These resources are invaluable as I plan my next steps post-internship.

This informal chat has been a pivotal moment in my Outreachy experience. It has not only provided practical advice for my current work but has also broadened my horizons for future opportunities in open-source. I am grateful for her insights and am energized to apply these learnings as I continue my journey in the open-source world.

As I move forward, I am committed to embracing new challenges, continuously learning, and exploring the myriad opportunities in open-source. This chat has reinforced my passion for this field and I am excited to see where this path will lead.