The robotics club in HTLA is not just a club, it’s a community where students learn, connect, and discover new hobbies. To get a better idea of what the club is really like I interviewed a current member, junior Arman Grigoryan, who has been in robotics since the start of tenth grade. He told me that he joined the club after he heard about the program when applying to the school. Both peers and teachers recommended it. This club is recommended to all students but especially to ones who are interested in engineering, technology, or building.
When asked about how robotics has impacted him, Arman responded that it has helped both him and his friends to gain real hands-on experience with engineering. They’ve learned how to use power tools, machinery, and computers in order to create a functional robot. He feels that these skills will help him greatly in the future. Students who are interested in robotics don’t just have to join the after-school club, they also can choose the elective.
Arman also talked about how much time he spends in the club. Since he’s in the elective, he’s in the robotics room during third period every day. On top of that, he goes after school and sometimes even on weekends for events or to help the team prepare for competitions. He explained that robotics takes commitment, but it’s worth it because everyone works together and supports each other.
Right now his main role in the club is planning fundraising events and helping bring in money for the team. Recently he has been applying for grants and looking for ways to raise money so the team can keep building and competing. During the actual robotics season he works on making parts for the robot or helps with anything the team needs. According to him, robotics teaches students how to be flexible and how to take on different responsibilities.
When I asked Arman if he would recommend robotics to other students, he said he “definitely” would. He explained that robotics isn’t only for people who already know about engineering. It’s open to anyone who wants to learn something new or try something different. There are so many areas connected to robotics that almost anyone can find a place in the club, whether they like building, coding, designing, or even organizing events.
Arman also believes that robotics has a positive impact on HTLA. He said that without robotics, the school would lose a lot of its charm. The club creates a safe and educational community where students can challenge themselves and grow. With the help of teachers and mentors who guide the team, robotics gives students opportunities they might not get anywhere else.
