FSAE & Formula Team: Student Experiences

  • Thread starter Curl
  • Start date
In summary, the conversation discusses the experiences of different individuals on the formula team in their university. One person had a negative experience due to egotistical leaders, while another thoroughly enjoyed the hands-on knowledge and preparation for their career. It is mentioned that being on the formula team requires a significant time commitment and should only be pursued if one genuinely loves motorsports. Despite the time commitment, many find it to be a fun and worthwhile use of their free time.
  • #1
Curl
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Were any of you on the formula team while in school? How did you like it?
 
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  • #2
Mine was full of egotistical cocks who were 'running' it. Which generally consisted of sucking the fun out of everything, spending the money in frivolous ways, and getting nothing done. Therefore my experience was horrible. I got my motorsport buzz from elsewhere.

From my discussions with friends from other Universities, it takes up all your time, it's hard work, there's little reward whilst you are doing it. But the level of camaraderie of working with your mates on something you love is more than worth it (a sentiment I share).The bottom line is: Do not do it if it's just ticking a box for you, only do it if you genuinely love motorsport. The only way to tell if you'll like it is to suck it and see.
 
  • #3
I had a different experience than Chris did. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience I had with FSAE at the University of Washington. I went to the Detroit competition 3 times (01-03), once as team captain (hopefully I was not people Chris was reffering to :) ). I felt that I gained so much hands on knowledge that helped prepare me for real world engineering that my typical classes did not teach. Not just engineering, but cost management, dealing with team member issues, business plans etc...

It will suck up all your free time, it is not a part-time gig, think about it as a full-time job. You must really be interested in engineering (and motorsports) to stay motivated. But I promise you, it will prepare you for your career. I couldn't get enough, but many people couldn't hack it either. I wouldn't trade those late nights opening the machine shop for anything. It was quite the sight to have 15 pieces of shop equipment fully manned and building the car everyone had designed.
 
  • #4
Why is everyone talking like FSAE kills all your "free time"? That is the among best uses of free time there is because it is fun. What else would you do, especially around here where it rains all the time?
 
  • #5
Curl said:
Why is everyone talking like FSAE kills all your "free time"? That is the among best uses of free time there is because it is fun. What else would you do, especially around here where it rains all the time?

Haha, I would have to agree. That "free" time most likely would not have been used to advance my career, probably would have spent more time partying.
 
  • #6
Curl said:
Why is everyone talking like FSAE kills all your "free time"? That is the among best uses of free time there is because it is fun.

Becuase once you've made the commitment, that time is no longer yours to do with as you please, ie it's no longer free. If you love motorsports you've merely allocated free time to something you enjoy doing.

Which is why it's important that you are wanting to do it for the right reasons.
 

FAQ: FSAE & Formula Team: Student Experiences

What is FSAE and Formula Team?

FSAE (Formula Society of Automotive Engineers) and Formula Team are student engineering competitions in which teams design, build, and race small-scale formula-style race cars.

How do students get involved with FSAE and Formula Team?

Students can get involved with FSAE and Formula Team by joining their university's team or starting their own team. They can also participate in competitions as volunteers or judges.

What skills do students gain from participating in FSAE and Formula Team?

Students gain a wide range of skills, including engineering design, project management, teamwork, problem-solving, and communication. They also gain hands-on experience with vehicle design, fabrication, and testing.

What are some challenges that students face while participating in FSAE and Formula Team?

Some common challenges include time management, fundraising, and budget constraints. Students also face technical challenges related to designing and building a high-performance vehicle within strict competition rules.

How does participating in FSAE and Formula Team benefit students in their future careers?

Participating in FSAE and Formula Team can benefit students in their future careers by providing them with real-world engineering experience, networking opportunities, and the chance to showcase their skills to potential employers. It also demonstrates their passion and commitment to the field of automotive engineering.

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