FIRST Global Challenge

The **FIRST Global Challenge** is an annual international robotics competition that brings together national teams of high school students from around the world. Each year, teams design, build, and program a robot to complete a game that highlights real-world STEM themes such as energy, water, or health. Students work through a full engineering cycle—from brainstorming and prototyping to testing and iteration—while collaborating with mentors and peers across disciplines like mechanical design, electronics, and coding. This program is well-suited for students who are motivated by **hands-on engineering**, interested in **global collaboration**, and ready to commit time to team-based problem-solving. Participants gain experience in areas that matter for college applications, including: - **Technical skills** in robotics, programming, and systems thinking - **Teamwork and leadership**, often in nationally selected or representative teams - **Cross-cultural communication**, as the event involves interaction with peers from many countries Involvement in the FIRST Global Challenge can demonstrate initiative, resilience, and the ability to contribute to complex projects—qualities that colleges value in STEM-focused applicants. Students typically connect with their country’s designated team or organizing body, as participation is structured around national representation rather than individual entry.