Managing Grades and Responsibilities While On A FIRST Team

[gracie.]

Sometimes it's hard to remember school is the #1 priority when robots can be a lot more engaging. I've kind of been in a FRC family for the past 7 years, and there's a phenomenon my parents have dubbed the "robotics grade slump". You hit 2nd semester and everything goes to chaos.

I managed to avoid the slump last year, something different works for everyone, but here's my best advice:

1) Use the time. -- For our team, there's a 3 hour window between school ending and robotics starting. It's excellent for goofing off and going to CVS, but actually doing some work might be a nice idea. Yes, you'll have to work after too, that's just the reality of our school, but it'll bump up your sleep time (and let's be honest, you'll get to surf reddit before bedtime, too).
2) Talk to your teachers. -- If it's week four and you've got three tests on the same day, something's got to give, and chances are, one or more of your teachers will be forgiving. They're good people. It's a lot easier to negotiate an extension than to do damage control on a bad grade (and you'll be thankful when you're applying to college and have to look back on your gpa).
3) Have a quitting time. -- There's a point at which your neurological function just kind of drops off a cliff, whether you feel it or not. During season, learning to prioritize and knowing when it's bedtime anyway can really save you. 1am works for me.
4) Feed thyself. -- Honestly, forgetting to eat and drink properly is a big problem. Remaining hydrated and fed is important whether you're working with potentially dangerous tools or just trying to keep your eyes open for another 40 minutes to finish your calc homework. Plus, sometimes jumping jacks or breakfast food at midnight has a better kick than energy drinks.

That and have an excellent supply of diet mtn dew-- more caffeine, no sugar crash! Good luck this season, everyone!

Edit: Last thought-- know when you /need/ to miss robotics and know that that's ok. Seriously. Dance rehearsals and parental mandates happen.