I will design and develop the baseline code for the MySpace Instant Messenger protocol plugin for Gaim. I will do this by first using Ethereal to packet sniff the basic protocol and get a general idea of how it works. I will then begin documenting the details of my research. A prototype will then be created. I do not plan to implement the entirety of the plugin simply because I feel that is too eager of a task to accomplish alone while meeting a high standard of quality.

Who am I?
 I am currently a 21 year old Junior, Software Engineering student at Milwaukee School of Engineering. I have experience with Java, C/C++, C#, Assembly, as well as other technologies. I have been educated in testing techniques, algorithms and data structures, computer security (cryptography), as well as operating system development.
 I have grown up with a computer by my side. I am fairly new (3 years) to hardcore programming but I have been doing mild programming (scripting) since I was 12 years old. Working on open source projects has always been a goal of mine and I feel that having a mentor is the best way to do it.

Why am I the right person?
 I have a general knowledge (but more in depth than the average user) of the internet as well as its protocols. Working with others towards an ultimate goal will be a learning experience for me. I also think that there may be some things that I can offer as far as programming goes. I have experience with low level systems as well as high level patterns and much in between. Since I have such a broad knowledge and somewhat extensive list of languages under my belt, I think that once this project is completed I will be more apt to help in other ways to the Gaim project. This would allow me to familiarize myself with the design and code which would essentially give me a foot in the door towards accomplishing other tasks for Gaim.
 I have worked with teammates during school on projects so I can adapt those experiences to working with team members online. I am comfortable asking questions and communicating (usually on IRC).