The Joy of Mentorship and Innovation: Guiding the LG AI Touristic Explorer through Google Summer of Code 2024

What is Google Summer of Code (GSOC)?

Google Summer of Code (GSOC) is a global, online program focused on bringing student developers into the world of open source software development. Launched in 2005, it’s a prestigious initiative by Google that provides students with the opportunity to work with established open-source organizations on a variety of projects over a three-month period during their summer break. Students gain valuable real-world software development experience, contribute to meaningful projects, and are financially supported for their efforts.

Over its nearly two-decade history, GSOC has helped launch the careers of thousands of developers while significantly contributing to the growth and advancement of numerous open-source projects. Every year, hundreds of organizations are selected to participate, offering a diverse range of projects spanning various domains, including programming languages, operating systems, web applications, and more. GSOC continues to be a vital program for fostering the next generation of developers and strengthening the open source community as a whole.

The project

As a mentor for the “LG AI Touristic Explorer” project in the Liquid Galaxy Lab’s GSOC 2024 program, I had the incredibly rewarding experience of witnessing a student, Manas Dalvi, transform raw enthusiasm and potential into a tangible, impactful application.

This project wasn’t just about code; it was about harnessing cutting-edge technology to create a product with real-world applications. The “LG AI Touristic Explorer” leverages the power of Large Language Models (LLMs) through Google’s Gemini API to provide users with a rich and immersive city exploration experience. The integration of Deepgram API for narration adds another layer of engagement, allowing users to hear stories and information about the places they’re exploring.

In this case, guiding Manas through the intricacies of Flutter development was particularly fulfilling. Seeing him not only understand the fundamentals but also leverage them to build a functional and engaging application was truly inspiring. From crafting user interfaces to integrating complex APIs, Manas’s progress showcased the power of dedicated learning and the transformative nature of hands-on experience.

My experience as a mentor

Being part of the GSOC program within the Liquid Galaxy Lab this year has been a truly enriching experience. It was an incredibly rewarding experience, marked by both challenges and triumphs. Guiding Manas Dalvi, a bright and enthusiastic student, through the complexities of Flutter development and the integration of cutting-edge technologies like LLMs was a journey filled with learning and growth for both of us.

One of the most fulfilling aspects of this mentorship experience was witnessing Manas’s growth as a developer. He tackled complex tasks with determination, diligently researching solutions and seeking guidance when needed. Seeing him confidently navigate the intricacies of integrating Google’s Gemini API, internationalization, app state… The Flutter application was a testament to his hard work and his ability to translate theoretical knowledge into practical application.

Our regular meetings provided a platform for open discussion, where we could brainstorm ideas, troubleshoot issues… His ability to clearly articulate his thoughts and actively participate in discussions demonstrated his growth as a team player and his commitment to effective communication.

The experience reinforced the importance of mentorship in nurturing the next generation of developers and highlighted the profound impact that guidance and encouragement can have on a student’s journey. The “LG AI Touristic Explorer” project stands as a testament to the power of mentorship and the incredible potential that can be unlocked when students are given the opportunity to work on challenging and meaningful projects.

Thanks to many people

None of this would have been possible without the tireless efforts of Andreu Ibañez, the organizer of the Liquid Galaxy Lab’s GSOC program. His dedication to creating a supportive and engaging environment for both students and mentors is truly commendable. His efforts ensure that students like Manas have the opportunity to participate in meaningful projects and develop their skills while creating impressive products. Thank you, Andreu, for your unwavering commitment to the GSOC program and for making this experience possible.

Finally, I want to express my deepest appreciation for Manas Dalvi’s hard work and dedication throughout the entire project. His commitment to learning and his proactive approach to problem-solving were instrumental in the project’s success. From our regular meetings to the countless hours he spent coding and refining the application, Manas consistently impressed me with his perseverance and his ability to quickly grasp and implement new concepts.

Demo Day!

Project Summary

The LG AI Touristic Explorer is a Flutter application designed to revolutionize city exploration. It leverages Google’s Gemini API to provide detailed information about a city’s history, culture, and points of interest, while the Deepgram API provides narration for an even more immersive experience. The app also features KML visualizations for select cities, multilingual support, and customizable themes.

• GitHub: https://github.com/LiquidGalaxyLAB/LG-AI-Touristic-explorer
• Documentation: https://github.com/LiquidGalaxyLAB/LG-AI-Touristic-explorer
• Play Store: (Waiting for publication)