My name is Brambleberry of RiverClan, and I am an adopter for the Adopt-A-User program. Despite being named after a black-and-white feral cat from the Warriors novel series, I choose a puma as my likeness because I am a WikiPuma, or editor that makes large edits but will also do small things. If you don't understand, don't worry! You'll figure it out in the adoption process. That's what I'm here for.
My goal as an adopter is to steer you away from making unconstructive edits, even well-meaning, and to create you into an experienced editor with your own ideas, interests, and contributions. My ideal goal is to get you into the position to be an adopter yourself, though I understand that this is not for everyone and you may want to do something else. If so, I do not blame you.
The following have graduated from my adoption program and are on their way to becoming significant contributors to Wikipedia. Current adoptees should look to them as role models as they look to their adopter (in this case, me) as role models.
Yes, I was adopted. Lessons dropped off after a while and I never officially graduated, though two other users in the program have assured me that I am eligible to adopt myself. I tell you now that I will never drop off lessons before graduation.
How will we know if you go on holiday?
If I take a break from editing, I will place a notice on this homepage in large font in addition to notifying all of my adoptees personally. I hope that if you go on a break, you notify me as well.
What happens if I forget about lessons?
If you forget your lessons, I will send you a gentle reminder after a week. If you still do not respond, I will continue to send you gentle reminders. After five reminders, I will send you a last notice. If you do not respond within a week to your lessons, I will have to lose you as an adoptee without graduating you. You may find another adopter, however.
No, I have nothing planned beforehand. Instead of creating a strict course, I play to the interests and strong suits of my adoptees. When I feel that I have taught you everything you need to know, you will graduate.
When will I graduate?
You will graduate when I feel that I have taught you all you need to know. This can either be planned for us, or if I notice that you have the makings of a great editor it may be suddenly and unexpected. Do not be afraid if I graduate you; it means that you learn faster than you assume.
What if we're graduated and still have questions?
My door is always open to adoptees, current or graduated. If you have questions about anything, I will do my best to answer. If I literally have no clue, I'll direct you to someone who does.