I had to think long and hard about this one, even though I already knew the answer. To me, the people are what makes FIRST such a great organization.
First, it starts with the coaches and mentors. They get us pumped up for the upcoming season and give that inital spark of inspiration that gets us psyched. The coaches help keep the team centered, focused, and organized.
Second, it's all of my teammates. If you've ever seen TJ^2, you know we're a crazy crew. Everyone on the team is enthusiastic, spirited, and fun to be around. Team meetings are often humorous and well put together by our student leaders. It's been a pleasure to work with other dedicated people on our team.
And last, but surely not least, it's all the other people in FIRST. The overwhelmingly large majority of people in FIRST are caring and inspiring people (both students and mentors). I've had some great conversations and met some awesome people at regionals, the Championship, and off-season events. I find it so easy to strike up a conversation with another FIRSTer, something you probably couldn't do when you walk in to your neighborhood Starbucks. We all come together at these competitions with a common goal in mind (usually winning, though not always in the 'first place' sort of way), but leave with so much more. I've made some amazing friends that I hope to be in contact with for years to come.
The organization is truly about the people, fostering the love of science and technology in students from all over the world. If you look at any of the crowd shots from this year (like
this lovely one), you see it packed with students, mentors, engineers...people! It's the aspect of FIRST I love best, and it has certainly had the most impact on my life.