From FIRST Robotics To Game Development

When I first joined Team 1775, my high school robotics team, I never imagined it would lead me to the world of game development. At the time, I was just excited to be part of a team that built and programmed robots to compete in exciting challenges. Little did I know, those experiences—especially the incredible opportunity to go to Worlds during my freshman year—would light a spark that would grow into a passion for creating interactive worlds and telling compelling stories through games.

As a programmer for Team 1775, The Tigerbytes, I was tasked with bringing our robots to life. Whether it was writing algorithms to navigate an obstacle course or debugging issues at the eleventh hour before a competition, I learned how to think critically, solve problems, and work under pressure. One of my favorite memories was competing at Worlds during my freshman year. The scale and intensity of the competition were unlike anything I had ever experienced. Seeing teams from around the globe showcasing their incredible robots inspired me to push myself further, not only as a programmer but also as a creator. It made me realize the limitless potential of technology and collaboration.

What really intrigued me about robotics was how programming wasn’t just technical; it was creative. Each competition felt like designing a puzzle where the robot was the key to solving it. At Worlds, I saw how diverse approaches and innovative ideas could lead to success. This realization planted a seed in my mind: what if I could use these skills to create not just functional robots, but entire worlds for others to explore? That’s where my interest in game development began. Robotics taught me how to think in systems, anticipate user interactions, and iterate on designs—skills that are just as valuable in game design as they are in building robots.

Working with Team 1775 also helped me develop a strong foundation in teamwork and collaboration. Just like in game development, robotics required a diverse set of skills, from mechanical engineering to programming and strategy. Being part of this team taught me how to communicate effectively, work toward a shared vision, and celebrate success as a group. The experience of competing at Worlds amplified this lesson. It showed me the power of a united team and how a shared goal could bring out the best in everyone. These experiences gave me the confidence to explore game development more seriously. I started tinkering with game engines, participating in game jams, and experimenting with storytelling and mechanics. Every new project felt like building a robot for a different kind of competition—one where the goal was to engage players and make them feel something.

Looking back, my time with Team 1775—especially the unforgettable experience of going to Worlds my freshman year—was more than just a high school extracurricular; it was the beginning of my journey as a creator. It showed me how programming could be both technical and artistic, and it set me on the path to pursuing a career in game development. Today, as a Game Design and Development student at RIT, I still carry the lessons I learned on that robotics team. Whether I’m designing puzzles, programming gameplay mechanics, or leading a team project, I often think about those first competitions and how they shaped my approach to problem-solving and creativity. To anyone wondering how their current passions might connect to their future dreams: never underestimate the power of what you’re learning right now. For me, the leap from robots to realms wasn’t so big after all—it was just a new way to combine logic, creativity, and a love of storytelling.

Here’s to the journeys that lead us to unexpected and exciting places. 🛠️🎮