[EvilInside]

In order to keep students, you need to find the right ones. I, having exactly ZERO life, am the perfect candidate for a FIRST team. Throughout the school year, I'd talk about it in class rather loudly, and anyone interested usually came up to me and inquired about it. Flat out I'd tell them the commitment level. Robotics is more than just a sport or after school activity, it is a dedication for six weeks of your life. If they actually show up to more than one meeting, you generally have them hooked. Also, freshmen are extremely bad candidates on the most part. Of course, every once in a while a freshman space monkey that is truely a great person to have on the team (We are lucky enough to have such a freshman, who is almost as dedicated as I am) and these are the team captains of later on. Sophomores are a little better, but I've found that Juniors are the best. They still have another year, so they can still feel like they are learning something the first year and then contribute the next year, which is completely fine. I'm just taking the everyone likes to be important a little farther: If your students believe that in their time left at whatever high school they are in they can contribute to the team, they would be more than happy just learning the first year they are in the program. Last year was my first year, and though I actually contributed little, I am a team captain this year. Also, when someone new makes an excellent point, compliment them. If they have a good idea, make sure they know they are being credited with it. Veterans are notorious for stealing ideas from the new people, and this will drive away a good 50% of excellent students that would really enjoy the program. Just my thoughts on the subject. BTW, my AIM is therealaval so feel free to contact me.