Mentor Poll - Who are you trying to Inspire?

[David Brinza]

I had to vote: society in general.

FIRST offers an opportunity to change the way the masses view science, math, engineering from a "grassroots" approach. When students get engaged, even excited, about doing something that is challenging and their peers, teachers, parents and mentors can cheer them for their efforts - that's inspirational and culture changing.

I got hooked on FIRST when I attended the last Championship at Epcot (2002). My son (now a computer science major at UCSB) was a member of Team 16 (Bomb Squad!). He invited me to the event and I certainly got caught up in the excitement of the competition. However, I was most impacted by a student from an inner-city school who wanted to tell me about his Team's robot and what he had built. For most kids living in that environment, the "way out" might be a sports scholarship and the faint hope of playing professional sports. I realized then that FIRST program offers a real alternative for anyone to become involved in the technological world.

As a mentor in FIRST, I feel I can reach the masses by inspiring the students on my team, who then inspire other students, parents, teachers, administrators, sponsors, ... , even society!

[Al Skierkiewicz]

I try to inspire anyone who looks like they will listen. OK so I'm an old guy and no one listens anymore, by I try. It is much easier to put a handle on a smaller group than "society in general" so I answered "all First Students". I am pledged to answer anyone I can, help when asked (and sometimes when I'm not) and to assist with young people when they are trying to find direction. Before FIRST there was Boy Scouts. It doesn't matter to me one bit whether a student wants to go to engineering or not. I want them to succeed, be happy and help others be just like them. Gracious Professionalism means all of this without really saying it. In the Boy Scout Law, a boy pledges to be Trustworthy, Loyal, Helpful, Friendly and Courteous so it easy for me to participate in First. Same guidelines. It is not an easy road, and certainly not one that everyone will travel or stay on until the journey is complete. It works for me and I want it to work for others, too.

[dhitchco]

Just remember to "do your homework" and go out and INSPIRE your local politicians as Dean has asked!

Also, go out and INSPIRE someone NOT from the United States. We still tend to be an "insular" nation from the rest of the world. Show the rest of the world what a wonderful sub-culture that FIRST has created.....