We got qualified for Vex IQ Worlds for the first time, and we are thinking if we should go. It is not easy to get qualified and the Worlds will be an great experience. However, we are unlikely to get a good rank from the Worlds, even if we spend tons of time improving. The cost is not low (registration + flight + hotel). What is your experience at the Worlds? Any advice is highly appreciated.
Well, 1398 teams will go to worlds and not be the winner…but they will all think it was well worth going. If you can go, by all means do it for the experience, do your best, and have a great time. Whether you’re first, last, or somewhere in between, you still qualified for the World Championship and can be proud.
I agree with this wholeheartedly.
The REC Foundation intentionally books large convention centers for the World Championship not just because it provides space for teams in attendance, but because they want to make it an unforgettable experience by having the facilities to turn VEX Robotics into a viewing spectacle rather than just a robotics competition. Remember that while RECF will cater to you as competitors, they are also catering to the numerous spectators who will attend since Worlds is open to the public. They will most definitely ensure that on the last day of the VIQC World Championship, you walk out of the main stage area with your heart pounding after bringing so much anticipation for the last few matches. None of us have seen the venue in Dallas for this year, but I can imagine it’s on par with the venue in Louisville in previous years.
Also, this is a great opportunity to meet teams from around the world, some who don’t even speak the same language as you. There’s so many different perspectives on robotics, and it’s neat to see everyone’s ideas and creations, because maybe it’ll inspire your future robots.
I would say that you should definitely give Worlds a try even if you don’t think you will do well; it’s a one in a lifetime experience and the REC Foundation tries their best to make that the case each and every competition season.
I’ve been to worlds 6 times, 4 of which were in person. It’s an amazing experience you meet tons of cool people and see some incredible designs. I’ve never had a bad time or regretted going so I would definitely recommend it if given the opportunity.
Haven’t been to Dallas worlds obviously as it’s a first but I assume it will be just as great as Anaheim and Louisville worlds.
It’s definitely expensive but I’d say it’s worth the price.
The experience alone is worth going. It’s the biggest robotics tournament in the world, and qualifying for it is a huge accomplishment. It’s worth the price to go and get your name out there, bring home cool souvenirs and meet some of the top teams in the world.