[Alyssa]

This has been an issue that our team has been combating for years...a few years ago I think I remember starting off with 30 freshman and ending the season with 2. However, we've been working really hard on it and this year I think we started with around 25-30 freshman and have only lost about 5.

To combat this issue in the offseason, we meet about once a week for general meetings and updates, however, just about every weekend in the offseason we have either trainings happening for new members, or a community service event.

Joining a team can be more than intimidating for rookie members. All of the older students seem to know so much more, and mentors are terrifying. It's really easy to get lost in the shuffle. What our team does to combat this is a requirement that ever rookie member earn certifications in at least 2 domains of the team. For example, if a student wants to become certified in electronics, they go to 3-4 classes taught by the leadership student in charge of electronics, take an informal test and then are officially certified to work in that department during the season. Along with giving us a competent workforce come kickoff, the program allows rookie members to get involved and excited to do what they learned about.

Another thing is off season competitions. I can't stress this enough. My rookie year, I fell in love with robotics at Battle at the Border, by meeting new people and getting to see other robots. Off seasons really give students an idea for what they signed up for, and give them an idea of what they are working towards.