[Basel A]

As the others said, step one is definitely getting interested people together. You don't need to be a formal student group right away, especially if you're not immediately looking for funding. But funding can be helpful. For example, FAMNM reimburses expenses for mentors and key volunteers travelling to events. You may also be able to get funds for social events; free food really brings people together.

Anyway, as you get further along in the process, feel free to reach out again. FAMNM just started about a year and half ago, so we're still going through growing pains. We're also helping to start another chapter at Michigan State called FAMNMS.

P.S. when it comes to Baja or other project teams, the same rule that applies to FIRST applies here: school first. Don't let your grades get screwed up!