[Joon Park]

FRC does some amazing things to all of us.

As a third year member, I saw rookies transform from a shy, quiet boy sitting at the back of the first meeting to the enthusiastic team member who gave a speech to the team on the way back from St. Louis. I watched as friends who are unable to put effort into school become inspired and raise their grades to attend the championship event. I witnessed my nerdiest of all nerd friends break out of his mold and socialize with other drive team members on the field.

What we share, in this organization composed of countless individuals from all over the world, is something that words cannot easily describe. Yet we all know we are part of something substantial, something monumental, something greater than all of us, because of the inspiration FIRST has given to us.

I'm more than glad to hear that your experience at St. Louis was fantastic, especially because this was my very first year to be able to attend the championship event. I would also have to say that the event was beyond anything I could have ever imagined. Everything from last minute tie-breaking baskets and double triple balances to the sleepless nights in the hotel rooms, the experience was truly one of the best in my life.

Thank you, FIRST, for putting inspiration into my life.