[Crop-Circles]

Last year, although we were not completly student run, but we had many of the same issues. Our robots drivetrain barely worked, none of the sub-systems were fully operational, our autonomous mode never worked properly, we didn't even have it working when we shipped it. Our robot SUCKED.

That was without a doubt the best year I have ever had with FIRST.

Even though our robot didn't work properly and no one else saw the true work of art that he was, we were all proud of our EARL(name of robot). Many people may argue that a true FIRST team should have more mentor involvment, and I agree with that. But this year and two years ago just aren't the same as last year. Our team is not as close as it was. We have been unable to recreate the type of team we had. Now some people on my team may disagree with me, but I felt more inspired and much more like a team last year. My first year on the team, we won nationals, and I can assure you that the feeling of winning as a divided team is much less rewarding then losing together.

So, my advice to you is this: Don't stress yourself more then you need to. Try to enjoy what your team has to offer. When you get to your first regional, use your robot as an excuse to interact with other teams. Get help wherever it's needed. I know how depressing it is when your robot doesn't work. But I also know that the true spirit of FIRST exists in your team, not your robot.