FIRST-like Programs at the College Level

[cadandcookies]

Originally Posted by Chief Hedgehog

The University of Minnesota has it's own Robotics team http://www.mngofirst.org/ as well as offering a team in the Solar Powered Vehicle challenge https://www.facebook.com/umnsvp.

UW Stout Polytechnic has been very successful in the Purdue Rube Goldberg challenge http://www.purdue.edu/newsroom/rubegoldberg/.

I am certain that there are others - but in terms of the organization that FRC has - no, not anything yet.

So light the fire in your own college/university!

I feel like I have to jump in now because GOFIRST was mentioned

GOFIRST currently competes in several competitions, including IGVC (Independent Ground Vehicle Competition) and the Autonomous Snowplow competition. In the past we've also competed in CARD (Collegiate Aerial Robotics Demonstration) and an underwater robotics competition. Every year we explore new competitions or projects to compete in or build during that school year.

However, building a robot is really only half of a "FIRST experience" as many would say-- we also mentor many area teams and volunteer at local FIRST competitions at all levels, as well as hosting several offseason events to help teach teams about both basic and advanced/developing robotics knowledge.

GOFIRST also has a group at Dunwoody College of Technology and is in talks to form groups at a few other Midwestern universities.

If you're just interested in building cool things, there are plenty of engineering competitions out there that have been mentioned in this thread. If you're interested in also doing things on the outreach/ "Broader FIRST" side of things, starting or joining a FIRST support organization, mentoring a team, or volunteering at events are all options. Do try to keep in mind that there's a much broader aspect of life than just FIRST-- get involved with other student organizations and activities.

If you (or anyone reading this) are interested in starting a FIRST support organization like GOFIRST or PurdueFIRST, send me a PM and I can get you in contact with our president and help with any questions you might have.