[meaubry]

I always tell the students on our team, that NOTHING is more important than keeping up in school and NOT letting your grades falter - because of the FIRST activities.

If ever they must choose between, getting something done for robotics vs. school assignments, the later MUST always win.
It is way too easy to get caught up in all the robotics stuff, so much so that it could have a negative impact - Only the student can prevent that from occuring.

The best advice I can give you is to prioritize your activities, as I stated above.

School first, FIRST - second or even third!

How - Planning and dicipline are the only way to get this beast under control.
Keep a log or calendar.
Set aside specific time periods that you MUST spend on school related stuff.
Set aside specific time periods for family, friends, chores, anything and everything - except robotics.
What ever is left - portion out time you can commit to robotics.

Stick to the plan - do NOT allow yourself to drift back into your old habits. This is tougher than it sounds, it will take all the dicipline that you can muster.

Good Luck -
Remember that all the good that you can see coming from FIRST involvement will not be as valuable, if you are not able to find a balance and gain the support from your parents, family, teachers, & friends.

Mike Aubry
Engineer and Coach - Team 47