First, there was
this thread, highlighting the pros and cons of mentoring a team right out of high school.
Personally, I'm doing my best at the moment to stay in touch with my team, while only being a little bit involved. I'll be at some of their events to act as support and photographer, but nothing too strenuous or time consuming (though I wish I could do more). Unfortunately, there are only 24 hours in a day!
Because freshman year is such a dramatic transition from high school, mentoring a team may require too much time and could interfere with your studies. Grades, as much as we don't like to say it, take precedence over FIRST. Just like FIRST is a learning experience, so is college. Check around the forums- there have been many people in your shoes. But ultimately, it's your decision.
If you do choose to take a mentoring break, there could be a robotics related club at your school or at least like-minded people.
Of your choices, I'd say pull back a bit from mentoring and concentrate more on volunteering and attending events, just to stay involved in FIRST. Once you're more acclimated to your surroundings at college, and can properly time manage (a
very important thing) then you could find it easier to come back to mentor, or give it your all, for your team.
There are other factors as well, such as proximity of school to your team. My team is 100 miles and a 2 hour drive for me, so instantly the role of mentor wasn't a possibility. However, I can still attend weekend events and such.
I went through that same tough transition last year, coming to realize that it was my last year as a student member of a team. However, there are so many options. If you're adamant about staying in FIRST, definitely volunteer. They're always looking for good, knowledgeable volunteers.
After my first semester, it became quite clear I couldn't devote all my time to my team, so I have decided to get involved in other ways..volunteering, do photography when I can for my team, doing Dean's homework..
On the flip side, a break could help you get everything in order at school, without having to worry about robot deadlines, or missed school thanks to regionals (my professors may not like me going to 3 regionals and Atlanta).
(Sorry that jumps around a bit, my mind's a bit foggy at the moment
)
But I'm sure whatever you choose will be beneficial for you!
Good luck on your decision and I hope you find happiness in it!
