I’m thinking about getting into robotics next year. Should I? I’m a 7th grader almost 8th grader. Convince me to be in robotics
You already have an account with them that I’m pretty sure you can’t delete. You don’t seem to need much convincing
Overall I started in 7th grade and is now going into high school. I feel that robotics has helped with team project communication and overall gave me life skills that I could use later in life. Local competitions allow to meet new people that otherwise you wouldn’t have met in your life with the same interest. I know this sounds like what other people say but it does help!
nope - if you know, you know.
If you want to do robotics competition at MS, highly recommend to join your school;s club.
You should join robotics because it will give you an opportunity to be creative and build, drive, and code stuff and play a fun game. You could also convince your friends to join so you can enjoy it together.
Why You Should Join VEX Robotics
In today’s fast-evolving technological world, opportunities for students to develop practical skills and explore STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields are more important than ever. Among the many extracurricular programs available to students, VEX Robotics stands out as a comprehensive, challenging, and rewarding experience. Whether you’re interested in engineering, programming, teamwork, or creative problem-solving, VEX Robotics offers something valuable. This essay explores the many reasons why joining VEX Robotics can be a transformative decision for students at any level.
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Hands-On STEM Education
VEX Robotics is one of the few programs that provides real-world, hands-on experience in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Through designing, building, and programming robots to complete specific tasks, students apply classroom concepts in an exciting, tangible way. For example, principles of physics, mathematics, and computer science are directly implemented in robot design and performance. This experiential learning approach helps deepen understanding and retention of complex ideas, making STEM subjects more accessible and engaging. -
Development of Critical Skills
Participation in VEX Robotics cultivates essential 21st-century skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, collaboration, and time management. Each VEX season presents a unique challenge that teams must solve by designing a robot to complete certain objectives. This requires strategic planning, iterative testing, and continuous improvement—skills that are highly valuable in both academic and professional environments. Students also learn to adapt and troubleshoot when things don’t go according to plan, developing resilience and resourcefulness in the face of failure. -
Teamwork and Collaboration
VEX Robotics is not a solo endeavor. Teams work together throughout the entire design and competition process. From brainstorming ideas and assigning roles to testing prototypes and managing deadlines, success in VEX requires effective communication and cooperation. Students must learn to listen to each other, compromise, and support their teammates. These interpersonal skills are crucial for any future career and are often cited by employers as among the most important traits in new hires. -
Programming and Engineering Experience
One of the core components of VEX Robotics is programming. Whether using block-based programming in VEXcode or advanced text-based languages like Python or C++, students learn how to control robots through code. This offers an early introduction to computer science, which is increasingly seen as an essential subject in today’s digital world. On the engineering side, students engage in the mechanical design and construction of robots using VEX parts, learning about gears, torque, sensors, and structural integrity. This blend of software and hardware experience is unique and highly relevant to modern STEM careers. -
Competition and Motivation
VEX Robotics competitions provide an exciting and motivating framework for learning. Teams from all over the world compete in regional, national, and international events. The competitive aspect encourages students to push their boundaries, refine their designs, and improve their strategies. The thrill of competition, combined with the chance to meet other passionate students, creates a sense of community and purpose that can inspire long-term interest in STEM. -
College and Career Opportunities
Colleges and employers recognize the value of programs like VEX Robotics. Participation demonstrates initiative, technical ability, leadership, and teamwork—qualities that admissions officers and hiring managers seek. In fact, many universities offer scholarships specifically for students involved in robotics. Furthermore, the skills gained through VEX are directly applicable to careers in engineering, computer science, robotics, and many other high-demand fields. -
Creativity and Innovation
While robotics might seem like a rigid technical field, it actually demands a great deal of creativity. Every VEX challenge can be approached in countless ways, and students are encouraged to think outside the box. From unique mechanisms to unconventional strategies, innovation is often the key to winning. This encourages students to experiment, take risks, and think differently—qualities that drive progress in every field. -
Leadership and Responsibility
Being part of a VEX Robotics team often means taking on specific roles such as team captain, lead designer, or programming head. These roles teach leadership and responsibility. Students must manage tasks, guide teammates, make decisions, and represent their team at events. This experience builds confidence and a sense of accountability, both of which are crucial for personal and professional growth. -
Inclusivity and Accessibility
VEX Robotics aims to be inclusive and accessible to students of all backgrounds and skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced tech enthusiast, there’s a place for you on a VEX team. The program supports diverse learners and encourages participation from underrepresented groups in STEM, including girls and minority students. This creates a welcoming environment where everyone can thrive and contribute. -
Global Community and Inspiration
VEX Robotics is a global community. Students not only compete locally but also have opportunities to interact with teams from around the world, especially at prestigious events like the VEX Robotics World Championship. These connections foster cultural understanding and broaden perspectives. Being part of this vibrant network can be incredibly inspiring and can open doors to lifelong friendships and professional connections.
Conclusion
Joining VEX Robotics is more than just building robots—it’s about building skills, relationships, and futures. It’s a program that blends academic learning with real-world application, technical training with creative exploration, and competition with collaboration. For any student looking to challenge themselves, grow personally and academically, and prepare for the future, VEX Robotics is a powerful and rewarding choice. It’s not just an extracurricular activity; it’s a launchpad for innovation, leadership, and lifelong success.
I assume a Generative Pre-trained Transformed decision.
An AI generated essay I assume.
But I think the topic probably deserved it.
Hi Carter, and the reason why is because it is fun and you can learn a lot. My first year i learned how to build and code a bot and im planning to apply it to next years game.
YES, JOIN ROBOTICS!!! I went to a 4 day summer camp in 4th grade and was attached. If you join, you will likely not be disappointed. It is no battle bots, but you will still have plenty fun in the fast-paced exciting competitive atmosphere. After a bit, it becomes a sort of tradition! You will not regret, give it a try and see what you think. Of course, not everyone will enjoy robotics, but it is worth a shot. If you enjoy math, engineering, and being creative, robotics will likely be for you. Many opportunities like this may not occur in the future, so you should try as many clubs and experiences like this as possible. I hope you enjoy robotics, and if so, I hope to see some cool designs in the future!
The fact that you made this discussion at all is convincing enough
I mean if you are thinking about getting into robotics, I’m just going to assume you have an interest in the robotics part, so I’ll drop some personal experience instead.
I’ve been doing robotics since 2nd grade, and I’m in 11th grade now, and It has been one of the most fuffilling experiences I have ever had over the years. Learning to deal with failures, work with strangers, and compete at scale has truly made me grow as a person.
I’ve become better at engineering through robotics, I’ve made some of my best friends through robotics, and I am a better person overall because of it.
It’s been 100% worth it for me.
I would DEFIANTLY recommend joining robotics I’ve been doing this for 35.7% of my life and I don’t regret it. Its a great learning opportunity and a great experience, to make it funner i would recommend going on a team with your friends and see if you like it or not.
Wow, that’s specific…
I’ve got you.
“ The VEX V5 Robotics Competition, presented by the Robotics Education & Competition Foundation, provides elementary and middle school students with exciting, open-ended robotics and research project challenges that enhance their science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) skills through hands-on, student- …”-An excerpt from Wikipedia.com
I mean of course every is going to say you should join, but It think sharing some of your interests could help people tell you what roles you should seek out. As other people has mentioned, theres a place for everyone in robotics, but if you are in the wrong role you often feel disinteresting or overwhelmed.
A more specific number is 37.1428571 ([5/14] x 100). This just shows proof of why it is a great idea to join vex.
Late to middle school robotics, early to high school robotics.
Late is actually a pretty bad word- Not early would work better I guess.
Nowww, I’m not gonna convince you, I’m just gonna give you some of the reality, maybe that’ll help you.
- I mean, you just created an account on a robotics forum that I don’t believe you can delete (unless you can… Never tried, likely won’t try)
- Robotics is pretty fun, although you’re gonna likely end up seeming less sporty or smth for being in robotics to other kids your age (Middle schoolers are mean) Buuut you do get to get the “They’re smart, they’re in that robotics thingy” role, which is pretty nice. (but you shouldn’t join for that one reason, that’s just an extra add on) If people know that you’re in robotics
- Teamwork!1! You get to bond with kids and people so much more easier than it is to bond with your classmates in English class! Like- You’re working with these people for a whole season, pretty hard to not make friends along the way! And- You get to learn the super important skills of teamwork
- You get to learn how to use tools, how to build things- Sure, you’re not necessarily building a house or anything- But it is teaching you a little (tad) bit of engineering, coding, building, etc
- You get to learn some things that can only be taught by yourself, (Trial and error, effective communication, solving problems) And it actually helps you in your day to day basis
- …7 You also get to be creative, which is usually something that is heavily restricted for some reason.
Did I just write all that to realize this was 4 months ago? Guys, that wasn’t cool reviving the topic ![]()
Technically, we didn’t revive it, since it’s 4 months old, as you look in this topic:

