Q I am not smart can I still join?
You don't have to be smart to join robotics all you have to be is eager to want to learn and input your share to the team. Robotics doesn't just involve mathematical equations, there are many sub-groups that an incoming member can join and perhaps then you'll be able to find something you're good at.
Q What is the advantages to joining FIRST?
As a member of FIRST you are entitled to several scholarships ranging from 1,000$ to a full rides as well as free state of the art professional software like Autodesk Inventor and 3D MAX!
Q Robotics is for geeks and nerds. I won't be able to fit in.
Okay, so more than likely you will find kids who are very technology savvy or informed, but don't be discouraged because all of them are sure to welcome you. Don't be afraid to be yourself because meeting new people can only do more good than harm. Come in with an open mind and be confident to learn new things and to teach people new things as well.
Q What season does robotics take place?
The build season and competition take place the from the first week in January to the end of April, but there is more to robotics. We have team activites such as post and pree season meetings and mini competition, community service and an end season picnic!
Q I don't know how to build robots.
Building a robot isn't solely on what robotics has to do with even though it is a major part. Keep in mind that Team 56 offers various sub-groups you can join from Marketing, to Photo-Journalism, to web-page. Depending on the type of person you are, you want to be able to choose a sub-group in which you think you would feel comfortable being in and in which you may have a chance of excelling in.
Q Robotics is weird, people will think I am a nerd.
Robotics is not weird; it's different, innovative, and the future to technology. People will always criticize whether you're a top athlete, or a very academically successful student, so don't hold back on what you want to do because you're afraid to get criticized. And remember that people criticize others because they're not satisfied with themselves.