group leader vs friend

The project group leader is facing a little dilemma. Our project hasn't even started proper when one of the group members may be leaving. He may be joining the Shell Eco-marathon team which covers the design project AND final year project.

As group leader, of course I wish he can stay with us. But as friend, I really would encourage him to pursue his interest, passion or even dream. In fact it was me who told him about the team opening and urged him to email the prof-in-charge even though the registration deadline was long over. Not everyone has the chance to design a car and go to France to compete with teams from all over the world. After you graduate you will want to look back and find yourself having done something meaningful in your university life.

I'm only a group leader for 2 semesters, but definitely a friend longer than that 2 dozens odd weeks. I'll still encourage him to grab the opportunity.