[Jimmy Cao]

Well, I dont mean to offend or anything, but i'll offer my $.02

My team was founded from the remains of a team that was highly selective, and that would turn members down. From what I heard, many people with great talent ran into issues with that last team.

Since then, we have always had the philosophy that we'll accept anyone who's dedicated and willing to be part of the team. For us, that means they are willing to offer 12 hours a week to the project. We do not do any "interviews" or "surveys" or whatever, and it's always worked out great.

Based on that, I feel that if you sampled the incoming members and only selectively allowed some in, then I feel that you're limiting your own ability. If we had such a system, I probably would have been turned down, as I was, as a freshman, quite useless. However, I, like most people, learned over time. I think that it's this learning experience that makes a great team, not just only inviting students who are good to start with.

Truthbetold, I, from time to time, do think some people shouldn't be involved in robotics, but then I tell myself, "I was that kid 2 years ago... and the leadership at the time prob thought the same way of me... and look at me now...". I think that's the philosophy that (all) teams should have.

From Alex Golec's sig, it said something along the lines of "It's never too late to be inspired", and how true that is. I think if you give all students a chance, sooner or later, that time will come. For me, it didn't come until my sophmore year. For others, it may come earlier or later.

Well, I hope that made sense...

Take care,