[Clem1640]

I have been an FRC mentor for 5 years and a Head Mentor for 2½. I take my role as mentor very seriously, but I also enjoy it and find it extremely satisfying.

But I have a family which depends upon me. Work is not an option; it is a necessity (for almost everyone). I am not specifically advising you to join the military, but I believe gainful employment (either military or other) needs to be a first priority.

For me, being employed enables me to participate in FIRST. It is not possible to choose one or the other; mentoring could not happen if I were not employed.