Getting Started with Coding
Hi, I’m Kunal Gupta, a first-year student. Before joining college, I had almost no prior knowledge of programming. Python was the first language I started learning, along with various technologies introduced in classes. At that time, however, I didn’t fully understand how these skills translated into real-world software development.
My first hands-on experience came when I learned basic HTML and CSS and built a static gaming-themed website inspired by Apex Legends. It was a simple project, but it gave me the confidence that I could actually build something from scratch.
Exploring Programming and Open Source
Around the same time, I discovered Hacktoberfest and decided to participate. This was my first real exposure to open source, where I successfully got around 11 pull requests merged and learned the basic contribution workflow.
After that, I continued learning JavaScript and experimenting with frameworks. I also developed a strong interest in Data Structures and Competitive Programming. Practicing on LeetCode improved my problem-solving skills, and so far I have solved more than 260 problems.
Although I had heard about Google Summer of Code even before joining college, I wasn’t familiar with sustained collaboration in large projects. I struggled to find meaningful issues, understand unfamiliar codebases, and stay active across organizations. I contributed to several projects, but I was still searching for a place where I could grow steadily as a contributor.
Discovering OWASP
Eventually, I came across OWASP, a security-focused open source organization. At that time, I wasn’t familiar with OWASP tools or security concepts in depth, but the idea of contributing to a real-world security project made me curious to explore further.
I began contributing to the OWASP www-community repository. My first pull request there was not perfect, but the maintainer Rick Mitchell guided me patiently and helped me understand my mistakes. That experience gave me confidence and helped me successfully merge around 6 pull requests while improving my understanding of collaboration and contribution standards.
Contributing to OWASP BLT
After that, I wanted to work on a more product-focused project and started exploring OWASP BLT (Bug Logging Tool). Understanding the codebase was challenging at first, but I gradually began identifying small issues such as minor logic gaps, workflow inconsistencies, and started working on fixes.
I opened a PR in the BLT legacy repo and it got merged a few hours later which gave me motivation to stay more engaged.
Preparing for Google Summer of Code
As I continue contributing, I am now preparing my Google Summer of Code proposal with OWASP BLT. This phase has involved exploring different repositories within the ecosystem, discussing potential proposal directions with mentors, and focusing on areas where sustained contributions can create meaningful impact.
Rather than seeing GSoC as just a goal, I now view it as an opportunity to deepen my involvement in a project and community that has already shaped my growth significantly.
Looking Ahead
What started as simple curiosity about coding has gradually turned into a structured open source journey. Along the way, I’ve learned technical skills, collaboration practices, and the importance of persistence.
I plan to continue contributing actively to OWASP BLT, refine my proposal, and keep building real-world experience through open source development. I’m excited to see how this journey evolves in the coming months.
I’m always open to feedback and collaboration.
Connect With Me
You can check out my contributions here:
GitHub:
SOCIAL SHARE CARD GENERATOR