Advice for Rookie You?

[spat]

I know that most of the things that I wrote were already mentioned by other members. Here are some things that I would advise a rookie or anyone in general:

• If you are a driver, you should not be in pits unless it is absolutely necessary. As a driver, you must be focused on the game, not on what problems may the robot have. In other words, pits can be stressful, and stress affects everyone.
• Always mentor the rookies, especially if your team lacks consistent mentors.
• From season to season, new things can be made available for FRC teams. You should not build a robot using the technologies and methodologies that your team used 4 years ago. In other words, accept change and innovate constantly.
• Do not hesitate to kick out of your team members who don't aport something to the team (especially if they are not rookies). It may sound rude, but they are not a good example to the younger members of your team. It may also prompt them to participate more when they re-gain their interest in FRC.
• Everyone makes mistakes, even if they have a lot of experience. Conflicts will always happen. In some sense, this is good, since you can always learn from your mistakes (both on the practical side and on the emotional side).
• All-nigthers and marathons are not a good idea. Period.
• You will get experience just after you need it. This will happen many times.
• For the rookie to respect you, you must first respect the rookie.
• As much as you hate your safety captain, listen to what he/she says.
• Never lose interest in learning. Find some time to learn new things, even if at first you may think that you know enough. What we know its just the tip of the iceberg.
• Everyone in your team will come from different backgrounds, do not expect everybody to have a good technical background.
• Talk with your parents, teachers and friends before build season. This will save you from a lot of trouble that may come with build season.
• Take advantage of the opportunities that FIRST or its sponsors offer you, especially if you are from the US.
• Last but not least, do not over-involve yourself with robotics, try to balance FRC and the other aspects of your life (school, family, sleep, etc.).