[Francis-134]

This may seem simple, but it is actually quite difficult to do: remember that you are no longer a high school student, and that you are now a mentor.

What does this mean? It depends on your team. It probably means you will be held to a higher standard than the students with regard to behavior and expectations. It also probably means that if there's any robot prototyping/building going on, you will be expected to be a role model with regard to safety.

You may also be expected to take a back seat to the high school students in some aspects of the team, perhaps brainstorming, design or manufacture. I cannot speak for your team, but since you are familiar with them, I will let you judge for yourself. Remember, this is not your "fifth year" as a high school student. You had your time, and your experience with the team changed you: don't take that away from another student, whether on purpose or by accident.

Beyond that, try to impart your knowledge to the other students. You are a veteran member of the team, which means, whether you know it or not, the other students look up to you to some degree. Teach them what you know about whatever you specialty on the team was; mechanical design, CAD, programming, marketing, whatever it is, your team will be better off if you leave a legacy greater than yourself behind.

Most importantly, talk to your other mentors. See what their plans are and see what they want you to do. The journey of becoming a mentor normally begins by learning from other, more seasoned mentors. Also, they will be there after you have gone back to school, and fitting into their plans will make their lives easier.