By getting involved in robotics in 2010, teacher Chris Shetlar has been a gateway for students who like to imagine and create new things.

“Anybody that likes hands-on things and likes a challenge I think would really enjoy robotics,” Shetlar said.

Robotics has been a way for students to come together and let their imaginations become realities.

For freshman Maranda King, her love for robotics started at another school.

“When I was in sixth grade I tried (robotics) and I absolutely loved it,” King said. “I’ve been doing it ever since and I absolutely love it.”

Being able to build and problem solve is a big factor in robotics, but that’s why sophomore Vincent Shafer, who began getting involved in robotics in sixth grade, enjoys it.

“Being able to build something that is functional all together, working with team members and problem solving is my favorite part,” Shafer said.

For others, the environment and people is their favorite part of robotics.

“It can get very competitive,” said junior Anthony Loera, who has been doing robotics for five years. “The new people you meet can also be a really good experience.”

“My favorite part about robotics is the teamwork and everything else about it that just lets everyone come together,” King said.

Many of the people involved in robotics believe more people should join.

“If someone wants to experience new things and learn how to problem solve and build things then they should join,” Shafer said.

“I think we should probably advertise it better to get more people involved,” Shetlar said. “We build stuff and it’s challenging, but it’s rewarding as well to finish what you start.”

Robotics is a way for people to collaborate and come together to work as a team.

Many of the students believe that robotics has brought closer relationships with other students involved.

“Since I’ve been at Derby, so far I’ve built up a lot of relationships in this class,” King said.

“I have a friend that I’ve known since sixth grade, he helps me out with some projects. I still have a best friends who I met in robotics,” Shafer said.