Students
Bridgewater-Raynham students play an important role on TJ2. They are the ones who, with the guidance of Depuy Engineers, build and maintain the robot that is shipped to the competitions. The students are deeply involved in all that goes on in TJ2 and help to plan every meeting, fundraiser, and event. They vote on suggested ideas for events, parties, fundraising, shirt designs, and other team decisions. This makes it so that everything from the stylish tie-dye tees and other articles of clothing to the website and newsletter articles are made and decided upon by the students. Not only do they help run the team, they are expected to help guide rookies and anyone who needs help. The team also takes opportunities to help the community, like The Green Day Project, an effort to clean up the streets of Bridgewater and Raynham, lead by Mr. Phaneuf. Every individual on the team makes an impact and contributes to the group.
There are a few competitions that the robotics team attends. This year the big trips are to Boston University, Annapolis, MD, and Atlanta, GA. In past years the trips and locations were similar. To attend these events you have to make the TJ2 Travel Team, which consists of 42 members. To make the top 42 you must first fill the requirements to stay on TJ2. These include keeping your grades up, fundraising at least $700 ($300 of which can be a family check), and having at least 30 hours (20 for rookies). You also have to stay on top of your paper work and attend the mandatory team meetings. The second thing you should do is attend as many group meetings as possible to build up your hours. Raising more money isn’t a bad idea either. The more hours and fundraised money you have, the better off you are.
The experiences gained while on TJ2 will help pave the path for the rest of your life. Cooperation, leadership, and responsibility are just a few favorable qualities you will pick up on the team. Membership on the team opens up many opportunities for college and careers. Many colleges offer scholarships for participation and interest in the robotics team. Also, the skills you acquire can help you in engineering positions, computer fields, sciences, teaching, and many other interesting and fulfilling occupations.
It is clear that the students of Bridgewater-Raynham Regional High School are the heart and soul of TJ2. Team members take a lot with them from being a part of the team and have many fond memories to look back on throughout their life. Thank you to everyone who makes this team possible, especially the students, because without their passion for everything TJ2, the team would not exist.