How has FIRST changed your life?

[rick.oliver]

Mentoring a FRC team has done a number of things for me:

• I became involved with FIRST because of the tremendously positive influence the program provided my son. It gave him a direction and passion for a career in engineering; upped his game academically; gave him a group of friends with shared values and interests ...
  
  I remained involved with FIRST (going into my 10th season as a mentor) because I wanted to help provide that same experience for other young women and men. I receive satisfaction and a sense of purpose when I see the success of students I have had the opportunity to work with.
  
  I am inspired and encouraged for our nation's future as a result of my experience with the students involved in the FRC program.
  
  I am re-energized by the many other teachers, parents and mentors who support the FIRST programs.

[Jon Stratis]

Rather than repost the write-up I did last night for another thread, I'll point you over to this post, outlining how my views were formed in life, and how they're changed since I started mentoring an all-girls team 6 years ago.