I’m considering dropping robotics as an extracurricular senior year. I’m currently a junior, and I’ve been participating in robotics for the last three years of high school. I’m considering quitting because we’re about to lose our coach, our most motivated students are graduating this year (younger students have no drive), and our chances of making it past local competitions are practically zero.
I’m planning to major in computer science. Would dropping robotics substantially hurt my chances for admission?
My current stats:
GPA: 4.0
Class Rank: 12/713
SAT: 1510
Clubs:
Cyberpatriot (9 member, 10 member, 11 Vice President, 12 President Predicted)
Robotics (9 member, 10 Public Relations Officer - Head of Programming FTC, 11 President - Team Captain FTC, 12 Vice President Predicted - Team Captain FTC Predicted)
Debate (10 member)
Awards:
NCWIT Aspirations National Award Winner
CyberPatriot 2nd in State (Earned Twice)
IMO, the answer is probably no. You’re in the top 2% of your class and have a great SAT score and computer and CS-related EC’s. (I’m presuming FTC is FIRST Tech Challenge?)
But two things come to my mind.
First, senior year will be a whirlwind, so you’re wise to consider taking a step back to reevaluate those EC’s you are truly committed to, and how hard you want to work at them. You’ll be in the middle of college apps and essays, as well as your regular classes and current ECs. If you do decide not to continue with robotics, you’ve been actively involved and have committed three years to the club.
Second, and on the other hand, while it’s unfortunate that you’re losing your coach and the more motivated club members, is robotics something you’re really interested in and want to continue? This could be the chance for you to lead the club, and motivate and guide the newer (less motivated) members. While you may not win past local competitions, the experience could be the opportunity to show leadership and continued interest in robotics.
Best wishes on your high school career, and your road to college.
I think this is a year when your club will need your leadership the most. Stop looking at it for what is in it for you. I’ve been a First mentor. While transitioning to a new coach, someone to mentor and grow younger talent on the team is invaluable. I say stick it out. Older kids helped you along. Would you repay that by quitting now?
I do not think quitting robotics will hurt your chances. However, IMO, staying in the club can bring you two potential “benefits.” First, it shows colleges that you were always committed to robotics throughout your HS life, an indication of dedicated passion and sustained effort. Second, as one of the most experienced members of your club, you will be able to take initiative in many ways. Although colleges expect students to have high GPAs and test scores, what they also look for are students with leadership and inner-drive. My guess is that colleges would like to see a club captain who recruits coaches and brings in new ambitious members to rebuild the club.
I agree-- this isn’t about your college application. This is about giving back to an activity you’ve enjoyed, and providing leadership for the new generation of kids. The new coach will absolutely need Senior leadership and the younger kids will need mentors…