[Ginger Power]

My situation may be a unique case, but I don't think it has to be. When I graduated and moved on to college I founded a university level robotics team called Bison Robotics. The organization is made up of FIRST alum as well as people who regret not doing FIRST in high school.

Within Bison Robotics we participate in collegiate robotics competitions, as well as mentor/volunteer within FIRST. This year we've had 35 different members volunteer at at least 1 FRC event. As the person coordinating all of them (in correspondence with Minnesota's Volunteer Coordinator) I can say that there are little to no regrets on the part of the volunteers. They love it.

Part of the reason we're able to volunteer is because we have a semi-established organization that allows students to be excused from their classes. We also build in support for students who miss class by working together, and learning from each other.

A lesser number of us work with FRC teams (usually the team we graduated from) during the build season. It's a lot to manage, but nothing that a dedicated FIRST alum can't handle. As one of the people who does mentor from Bison Robotics, I can say that it has been a massively positive experience.

Bison Robotics also participates in Ri3D which is another incredibly fun event. It really keeps you connected with the FIRST community, and your efforts inspire thousands. It's a really cool thing to be a part of.

As I said, my situation may be unique, but it definitely doesn't have to be. If you're going to a university that has no robotics organization, I reccomend starting one. I am more than willing to help. Starting Bison Robotics was the greatest decision of my life and I have no regrets.

*disclaimer: When we have a student who signs up to volunteer, and they come to the realization that it's too much, it's not a big deal at all. Being responsible and letting the volunteer coordinator know the situation asap is critical.