Thread: How FIRST has affected you?
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Unread 25-02-2008, 02:45
Arefin Bari's Avatar
Arefin Bari Arefin Bari is offline
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AKA: Ari
FRC #0108 (SigmaC@T)
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Re: How FIRST has affected you?
This thread is probably mentioned one way or the other; every year. I believe I posted in one of them when I was a sophomore in high school. Now I am going into my 8th season with FIRST. It's been a long journey full of good and bad memories.

Pros: FIRST has directed me to a path that I enjoy working with. I am majoring on Mechanical Engineering at Florida Atlantic University and have had several internships/co ops with different companies. For example with Motorola (because of team 108) and EDF INC. contractor for Pratt & Whitney (because of the mentors from team 179). I have met some good hearted people who are willing to help you through your ups and downs. Most of all, I have met some inspiring mentors who have taught me more than what a book could have.

Cons: FIRST has become a drug for me. A drug that isn't easy to quit. I told my kids that 2007 build season would be my last season with the team and FIRST; but somehow they have managed to pull me back. More so, team 108 engineers, the teacher, the kids have managed to convince me to go back to the team as well. Everything is a business and no matter what, every business turns into politics at one point or the other. I have always tried to keep myself away from "politics," not realizing that I have to face it at some point of time.

Through FIRST, you will face a lot of real world "problems," whether it's business related or personal. It's a challenge that I face everyday and try to get through it. There are times when FIRST will make you smile and there are times when it will make you upset.

I have involved myself with several committees down here in South Florida as well as the regional committee. I am involved with FLL committees down here as well. I am also a full time mentor on 2 FRC teams. FIRST keeps me busy enough for me to not to worry about little things when I am not at work or school or with my family. As far as sleep goes, I have learned to deal with 2/3 hours of sleep during the week.

The effectiveness of FIRST in your life can be different for each individual; It all depends on how you let FIRST effect you as a son/daughter, brother/sister, husband/wife, student, employee and a human.
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