Attn: Present & Future College Students, Think carefully before you mentor

[Richard Wallace]

Originally Posted by GaryV1188

The suggestion to volunteer at an event is wonderful. It will be a short-term high-time commitment, rather than a long-term high-time commitment. Many college students can arrange their schedules for a weekend without undue effects on their grades - as long as you don't skip exams or other important class sessions!

Second that: FIRST team alumni (IMO) make the best volunteers. If you'll be a college student in the same geographic region as your high-school FIRST team, it is likely that you've already met someone who can help you get started as a volunteer, maybe a mentor on your team or another team, or a regional committee member.

Team experience can make it easier to understand how your volunteer role fits into the overall success of a FIRST event. You may also have some detailed knowledge such as the rules, the kit of parts, event logistics, or a good network of people you've met at previous events that will make you especially useful as a volunteer.