Orientation: OpenMRS Fellowship Program

Owned by Jennifer Antilla
Last updated: Dec 16, 2022 by Nikesh Balami
2 min read

Why an orientation?

Each year, we reflect on what we've observed and heard from fellows and mentors about their fellowship experience. Many are asking for more guidance at the beginning of the fellowship on fellowship plans, project proposals, mentorship, writing blogs, and more. 

We hope that, by the end of this orientation series, you will be ready to successfully apply and participate in the OpenMRS Fellowship Program from the start in a targeted way that effectively and actively achieves your professional goals. 

What can I expect from this orientation?

By participating in this orientation series, you will be able to:

  • Summarize the expectations of each actor in the OpenMRS Fellowship Program

  • Define 1-2 professional development goals

  • Identify and prioritize technical and non-technical skills critical to your success

  • Create an initial plan for achieving your professional development goals

  • Describe how you’ll use essential open source and mentorship skills to set up a successful, fellowship experience

When and how long are the orientation sessions?

Four orientation sessions and an open working session are planned for 17 November -15 December 2022.

Session 1: Fellowship Program Overview

17 November 2022 at 2pm UTC

What should I expect from the Fellowship Program? What do I need to do in order to have a great fellowship experience? Who do I go to when I have questions or need help? How can my organization engage with the Fellowship Program? This session is all about who is involved in the OpenMRS Fellowship Program and how it works.

Couldn't make this session? Check out the recording!

Session 2: Matching Your Goals with the Skills You Need

22 November 2022 at 2pm UTC

Setting your goals for the next year can give your fellowship the direction you need to get where you want to be in your career. This session is all about defining your goals - and how to chart the fastest path to reach them. 

Couldn't make this session? Check out the recording!

Session 3: Mentorship, Open Source Citizens, and OpenMRS

1 December 2022 at 2pm UTC

Being a good open source citizen is fast becoming an essential, sought after skill for developers. What does it mean to be a good open source citizen? What are some of the skills and tools that good open source citizens use? How can mentorship you receive through the Fellowship Program help you become a great OpenMRS citizen?

Couldn't make this session? Check out the recording!

Session 4: Fellowship Planning

8 December 2022 at 2pm UTC

Failing to plan is planning to fail. This practical session gives you a chance to bring everything covered in previous sessions together as you craft your own Fellowship Plan in preparation for applying to the 2023 OpenMRS Fellowship Program.

Couldn't make this session? Check out the recording!

Open Working Session

15 December 2022 at 2pm UTC

This open working session is a time to share your ideas or draft fellowship plans and get feedback from Fellowship Admins, mentors, and others. Fine tune your fellowship plan, then apply!

Couldn't make this session? Check out the recording!

How do I join?