This past Winter Session, three CICS students - Chau Tran (CS BS ’27), Rushil Rawat (CS BS ’28), and Clare Liao (CS BS ’27) - joined the pilot Open‑Source Apprenticeship Program (OSAP), learning about the code and technologies that power the open‑source video game Veloren. By empowering students to engage with the broader “software commons,” OSAP directly supports the College’s mission of “Computing for the Common Good.”

Over a few intense weeks, students spent their break learning Rust navigating a large codebase, and collaborating in a team setting. Under the generous mentorship of CICS alum Kevin Gurney (CS BS ’16), they tackled real‑world engineering challenges - practicing agile workflows, mastering Git and GitLab, and even rubber‑duck debugging - all while building features and fixing bugs that move Veloren forward.

Alongside hands‑on development, they explored core principles of open‑source ethics and governance -covering licensing, transparent issue tracking, codes of conduct, community guidelines, and contribution pathways beyond code. As Rushil Rawat reflects, “I realized that contributing isn’t about knowing everything on day one; it’s about showing up, asking questions, and learning as you go.” Another teammate shared, “I went from not knowing any Rust to deciphering professionals’ code—it’s amazing to be able to do that.” Another said, “When the game finally popped up after all the errors, I felt really proud.” Beyond technical growth, they strengthened problem‑solving, communication, and teamwork skills—leaning on one another through tough bugs and celebrating every small win as a “gang of four.”

The pilot proved how much students can grow when given the chance to learn by doing, especially with a supportive mentor by their side. We’re incredibly thankful to Kevin for sharing his time and experience, and we’re excited to expand the Open‑Source Apprenticeship Program - bringing more mentors and apprentices together to advance open‑source for the common good.