Quote:
Originally Posted by DaveSparks
I am considering leaving my robotics team that I've been on for two years but im on the fence about it.There is a veteran team of 7 years in my area that im thinking of going to. I'm thinking of going to for a few reasons.
I dont enjoy the only adult team leader on my team,(he's the type that yells and blames people in the heat of competition).We are a two year team with no mentor support and because of the weak mentor support we have been in the bottom 5 teams of a regional in both years we competed.Also I dont seem to enjoy FIRST as many others seem to do.
My reasons to say were that im the only Vet the team will have next year. I have a student leadership role in the electronics area. And I will be a senior next year so it will be my last year of first.
I came to CD to get an unbiased opinion so tell me. What would you do? |
You need to use your own counsel. The mentors are supposed to mentor, not blame and they above all should support the team through anything.
It should be a positive experience and it sounds like the mentor has made that a challenge.... from what you've said.
I've mentored three teams now and I know it's hard to check your ego at the door. Still, I have memos from each team and I really treasure them.
This year will be your last "hurrah" so you have to chose for yourself. There is no formula for what is right or proper. Consider this though... how will you fit in with a 7 year vet team? You suddenly become a local "rookie" again. ( I considered working with a vet team this year, but my decision was, luckily , made for me. My old high school participated, so there was no doubt what I should do.) I have some experience to share, as do you. I have been part of FIRST since 1997 and was a regional director. As a vet you do bring something valuable to the party so that's good.
Anyway, the point of FIRST is you. Winning doesn't matter although it's nice. Losing doesn't matter although it stinks. Building a robot is not what it's all about.
So how do you decide? You probably already know what to do. Just do it and have no regrets. At 56 I can finally say, life is too short to waste it being unhappy.
That all being said, if my team came in last at a regional I'll still thank them for letting me be a part of it and we'll still have a party to celebrate.
Anyway... good luck!