[Moriarty]

Because it's hard.
Where homework and class rigor fail, robotics fills in the gaps. FIRST has endless levels of difficulties. Every year there is so much that you can do to improve, and when you get all the way to the top, you keep going and you push the bar higher (ahem, robonauts).

Because it's fun.
What could be more fun than bringing an idea to life, competing in a packed stadium of cheering robo-fans.

Because it's addicting.
I'm browsing Chief Delphi in class. I dream robots. I stop watching movies to watch webcasts. I wait an extra hour for the late train home because I didn't want to leave the robot.

Because it's life-changing
The most alluring to me. I came into robotics a timid, slightly depressed, annoying freshman. I have come out a leader with experience not only in telling people what to do, but real people skills -- how to talk to people, how to give a presentation (turns out it is much easier when you love the subject).

Looking forward to seeing you guys at Midwest Regional! (and perhaps visiting as a UIUC student next year! While I haven't decided on college yet I am have been accepted and am heavily considering UIUC)