Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding the future. I was on the verge of commencing my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Plunging into the unknown was not something my previously introverted and reserved self was familiar with. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and enjoyment! But what did I discover this year, and where do I stand now?
One of the earliest and most frightening challenges was forming friendships. This is certainly one of the more daunting elements of beginning university, and if you’re reading this as an incoming student, it may be one of your foremost worries. On my initial day moving into my accommodation, a few days ahead of the term’s start, I spent the whole day secluded in my room, too daunted to venture out and meet others. However, today I can affirmatively say I’ve made some of the finest friends I’ve ever had, here at this university and within this course. I’ve found a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with casual conversation with individuals in comparable situations. So, what did I learn? I learned that taking a chance at the beginning of the year is always beneficial. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker opportunities and events to facilitate connections with others. I also discovered that if you can embody one trait, be genuine. With an array of diverse individuals across the course and campus, you’re sure to encounter people like you.
An additional challenge was the intensity of the workload and the difficulty of the material. There was undeniably a significant elevation from A-levels, and in certain respects, an even larger leap from the first term to the second. Being immersed in such an environment can be tough on your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few things saw me through that sensation, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing similar struggles. If you don’t grasp something, I can almost assure you that others don’t either. So, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson to embrace in the first year. Seek help from your peers and faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are remarkable. They genuinely want you to thrive and understand the challenges faced by students. They sympathize with us and keep open lines of communication throughout the year about our difficulties. I didn’t make use of the pastoral support until the concluding part of the year, but I wish I had utilized it earlier. I mentioned taking chances before – I took one at the onset of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This role enabled me to connect with the faculty, which is extremely beneficial. There are numerous avenues to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the best things you can do for your own benefit! My primary takeaway from this aspect of university life is to make the most of the resources available to you. You can never have too much support!
In summary, this year has revealed to me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are often unfounded and can be mitigated with the support options available from faculty and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never alone and how to find enjoyment amidst pressures such as exams and deadlines.