F stand for Fame in FIRST?

[JVN]

Originally Posted by Ken Leung

... people like JVN, Andy Baker, Dave Lavery are among many who got the community's full attention right now.

Just want to know what you think...

Well Ken,
While I certainly wouldn't have placed myself in such distinguished company, (Andy... you're swell too ) lately I keep seeing myself referenced as such. Since I'm on your list, I guess I'll (however egotistical it is of me to do so) provide some insight on how I see things.

The "fame" you speak of is a weird thing, and it is tough to get used to (for many of the reasons that have already been discussed).

I find myself wondering what I did to deserve it (those who know me best have seen) because I'm just a normal guy, and just another Joe Schmoe in this competition. I've just gotten lucky, and had some incredible experiences, and met a lot of incredible people who have just made my time in this competition downright incredible.

This "fame" has certainly opened some doors for me, and made for some interesting times. Can you imagine how amused my parents must be that some kid in New Jersey has my name on his backback?
If nothing else it has helped me meet more of the people that make this competition great, which is fantastic.

It is also really cool to see the FIRST programs impact through all this. (preachy lesson time folks). I'm just a regular guy, going to college and majoring in Mechanical Engineering, but the fact that there are students across the country who look up to me (God help them...) is just amazing.
FIRST works. If a MechE-dork like me can be a hero for a HS kid, FIRST is certainly having SOME effect.

But of course, I feel a lot of pressure because of this...
I know I've certainly been trying to fill the shoes I've been given, but I'm still not sure how good of a job I'm doing.
All I can promise is that I'll keep trying to be the role model everyone seems to think I am.

Thanks,
John


PS - Ken L is my FIRST celebrity. Wooo, go Kenny!