The following steps are good things to do when applying for a 'summer
project' or any project in the world of Free and Open Source Software.

0] Remember not to use SMS speak. For example, plz/ppl/u etc are all
examples of SMS speak which are sometimes a barrier to communication.
Writing clearly and concisely helps communication.

1] When expressing a desire to become a participant in an Open Source
project, take time to read up about the basics. A very good book to do
this is 'Producing Open Source Software' by Karl Fogel. Karl has made
the book available online at producingoss.com

2] Shakthi Kannan has a nice presentation for students and others who
want to contribute to FOSS (that is, Free and Open Source Software). The
presentation is available at:
http://www.shakthimaan.com/downloads/glv/presentations/i-want-2-do-project-tell-me-wat-2-do.pdf. Please do go through it.

3] Sometimes the programming/non-programming skills you currently
possess are good enough to get you started as a contributor. So, when
writing to someone expressing the desire to work on a project, make sure
you highlight all such skills.

4] The Linux Kernel isn't the only place where you can contribute. There
are innumerable other areas to start building contributions from. Always
keep a look-out for such areas.

5] Learn how to communicate. In most cases, your mentor would be
virtual. Clear, concise and accurate communication skills are a basic
requirement.

6] Learning how to use mailing lists to let other participants know
about your contribution as well as obtaining inputs is a good skill to
have.

7] Every FOSS project has a wiki page or a forum which provides details
about project ideas or ToDo lists. Acquire skills that allow you to
assess such tasks and take them up if possible.

8] In any FOSS project, your contributions are made in a transparent
manner for all participants in the project to view,appraise and
criticise. Learn to take criticism in the proper manner and use such
appraisals to make your contributions better

9] A FOSS project is a community. Every community has its own rules and
culture. Before jumping right in, take time to learn the nuances of the
culture (remember how it was during your first days at school/college
?).