It's not just about the competition!

[Amanda M]

For me, FIRST was a great way for me to connect with people. I can literally name trip after trip where I got to meet new people and become closer with my team. I've been with my LEGO League team to a reagional and state competition, I've given lectures to other teams at offseason events, I've been to the remote kickoff in Phoenix, and I've been to lots of FIRST sponsored robotics events.

The thing the keeps me coming back is the warm environment. In FIRST you can meet anyone, and not be afraid of not fitting in. Everyone has a common background--robotics. Everything stems from that.

Recently I drove all the way from Kingman, Az to Indianapolis, IN to see the IRI competition. My team didn't go, but I did so I could see how everything worked, and so I could get another great FIRST experience. I was very flattered to be "inducted" into team 980. They took me in and treated me as one of their own.

I think it's great to be a memeber of your team, and to become closer to your team, but I was astounded that I could have a chance to become an honorary member of another team. No questions asked. I think that's one of the best experiences I've had in this organization.

[tiffany34990]

yeah i agree with all of you guys-- trips sure make u even more closer with u'r team and make u appreciate cooking at home well for me at least--good food is nice now--lol

but yeah as a team we get even closer-- learn to deal with each other even more--and all those funny times on the bus and at the hotel--something is always going on and then when u get home everyone one is like huh what

even during the season it's a great time--all the hours spending to achieve something great

keep on with the bonding everyone-it's very funny all the time --especially i must say pit thursday nites trying to fix things and everyone is tired and hungry -- good times 2004 @ palmetto!!

[Michael R. Lee]

To save yourself some time, just read my signature. lol (ok a few of you know.... I think )

Job references, scholarship references, help for trying to get a summer internship or job? All of that was through people I know through participating in FIRST. I wouldn't have even heard of Northeastern if it wasn't for stopping by a table on a break from the Pit my junior year at Championship at Epcot.

But back onto topic, the irony of it is I feel closer link to the group of us "kids" from my freshmen year of High School than my senior year on S.P.A.M.. It most likely is due to the fact there was a few of us (like 15 at the most versus by senior year 50 or so students!) and we went through so much like moving 3 times during build season, the two hour drives to competitions in Orlando and Titusville (the parties there were the best), and more. I'm not saying the students I met in my last few years on S.P.A.M. are bad, they're of different set of personallities. Night and day is a little extreme but at least to me its close to the mark. The early years of any team seems to be rough and well those of us who helped form its foundations, its name, and initial reputation as students are of a different group than those who come later. While I do admit I joined in S.P.A.M.'s third year of existence, I am proud to say I am an Alumni of four years and helped in the establishing the team we see today.

Sadly this year as a college mentor, academically and financially I was not able to attend any of our competitions. I am hoping next season will be better.

BTW: Winston Smith is NOT a penguin. His FIRST-SME id number is 8562. We registered him in 2000. Anyone remember those badges?

[Collin Fultz]

i also have some fond memories of travelling to comps...

most of which involve david kelly in one way or another...

he always seems to get confused and put into awkward situations