GSoC 2025 – Introduction & Interest in Apache Beam Projects

[Gayatri Kate <ga...@gmail.com>]

*Dear Apache Beam Community,*

I hope you're doing well! I'm  *Gayatri Kate*, a second-year Computer
Engineering student passionate about open-source development and data
engineering. I came across the GSoC ideas list for Apache Beam and was
particularly interested in the projects mentored by XQ Hu, which focus
on *JupyterLab
UI enhancements* and *Beam YAML ML accessibility*.

I have experience in *JavaScript (React, Next.js), Python, and UI/UX
development*, along with a strong interest in data processing frameworks. I
have also contributed to *Apache Iceberg*, which deepened my understanding
of big data tools, and I am excited to apply my skills to Beam.

I am particularly interested in contributing to the following GSoC projects:
1. Enhancing Apache Beam JupyterLab Sidepanel for JupyterLab 4.x and
Improved UI/UX

   - With my experience in React, frontend development, and UI/UX, I am
   excited about improving the JupyterLab Sidepanel to provide a smoother
   experience for Beam developers.
   - I’d love to explore ways to optimize compatibility with JupyterLab 4.x
   and introduce more intuitive design elements for better usability.

2. Beam YAML ML, Iceberg, and Kafka User Accessibility

   - My previous contributions to Apache Iceberg have given me insight into
   data infrastructure, and I want to improve Beam’s YAML DSL
   accessibility for ML, Iceberg, and Kafka users.
   - I am particularly interested in enhancing documentation, creating
   practical examples, and improving the developer experience.

I have been reviewing the GSoC ideas list, repositories, and
documentation. I would love to get any guidance on where to start, such as:

   - Beginner-friendly issues related to these projects.
   - Key areas to focus on before drafting my proposal.
   - Any resources or documentation that would help me get familiar with
   Beam’s ecosystem.

Excited to contribute, learn, and grow with the Apache Beam community!

*Best regards,*
Gayatri Kate

GitHub: https://github.com/gayatrikate04