Robotics Club - VEX or FIRST
Build and compete with real robots
Why It Matters
One of the most respected STEM ECs for engineering and CS programs. VEX and FIRST Robotics are internationally recognised - Waterloo Engineering and UofT Engineering both see these regularly in top applicants.
How to Start
Check if your school has a VEX or FIRST team. If not, search FIRST Robotics Canada or RobotEvents to find a community team. Teams need programmers, builders, and project managers - all roles count.
Commitment
- High commitment: several hours a week, often with evenings, weekends or travel.
- Best starting grade: G7
- G7 or G8 is ideal - the longer you're on a team, the more leadership roles you can grow into.
Programs It Supports
- Engineering
- Computer Science
- Mechatronics
Majors it supports
- Computer Science – high 80s to high 90s depending on school
Universities where it fits
Our profiles for these schools suggest Robotics Club - VEX or FIRST as a good fit for their applicants.
- University of Waterloo – Waterloo, ON
- Ontario Tech University – Oshawa, ON
- Simon Fraser University – Burnaby, BC
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- Sanofi Biogenius Canada – Student health and biotech research competition with national finals
- Lab Assistant / Science Prep Room Volunteer – Help science teachers prep labs and organize equipment
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