The Whippany Park Robotics Club provides a creative and thought-provoking environment that fosters friendly competition and collaboration. On October 22nd, the Robotics Club was rebooted, and new students were encouraged to attend the meeting, whether they are experts or just beginners. Students will meet in room 503 after school on Thursdays from three to four p.m., leaving plenty of time to make the late bus. The First Tech Challenge’s–a competition funded by a global non-profit organization that encourages ages four to eighteen to collaborate and create–date is still undecided, but rest assured that it will be posted soon. Lauren Stelwagon, a senior at Whippany Park High School, has been involved with this club for all four of her high school years and has been appointed the president. She plans to pursue a career in engineering–a passion of hers for years–and help develop other students’ excitement for robotics, computer design, and coding. Want to find out more about the Robotics club? Here’s an inside look at the Whippany Park Robotics Club from Lauren Stelwagon!
Q: What do you enjoy the most about the club?
A: What I really enjoy about the club is the collaborative environment. Working with teammates to brainstorm ideas and solve challenges is really rewarding.
Q: What got you interested in robotics/computer design and coding, and how long have you been involved with the Robotics Club?
A: My interest was originally sparked in designing and building during middle school in their Technology Club where we built mini solar race cars to compete in local competitions. I loved the experience so much that I signed up to join the Robotics Club freshman year and have been a part of it ever since.
Q: Do you have any advice or comments to pass on to new members?
A: My best advice is to be open to learning and experimenting. Plus, it’s a great way to apply what we have learned in the classroom and develop new skills in coding and building, while enjoying time with friends. Also, embrace failures as a part of the process, they often lead to the best learning experiences. Most importantly, enjoy the journey and have fun!
Q: What’s your best memory from the Robotics Club?
A: My best memory of the robotics club was when we collaborated with Hanover Park’s Robotics team. During the times we met, we all learned something new from each other either from coding or a building perspective.
Q: How does it feel to be in a leadership position in the club?
A: Being in a leadership position in the Robotics Club is both exciting and demanding. It involves balancing teamwork and navigating challenges together. Seeing our efforts come to life is worth it.
