Children’s Spotlight of the Week: Dana Stan – A Rising Star in Robotics and Design

At just an eighth grader, Dana Stan is already making waves in the world of robotics, programming, and graphic design. A student at New Albany Middle School, Ohio, Dana is an ambitious and dedicated member of her FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) team, bringing both technical skills and creative flair to the competition.

Dana’s journey in FIRST Robotics began with one year in FIRST LEGO League (FLL), where she honed her programming abilities. Now in her second year of FTC, she is eager to expand her expertise in programming and computer-aided design (CAD). In addition to coding, Dana also enjoys working as a graphic designer for her team, using her artistic skills to enhance the team’s branding and presentations.

Beyond robotics, Dana is a multi-talented student with a passion for the arts and athletics. She plays the violin in her school orchestra, takes private piano lessons, and is also a competitive swimmer. Her diverse interests showcase her dedication, discipline, and ability to balance academics, creativity, and sports.

Dana’s goal for this FTC season is to positively contribute to her team and continue growing as a programmer and designer. With her enthusiasm and drive, she aspires to pursue a career in robotics, combining her technical expertise and creative problem-solving skills to make a lasting impact in the field.