Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the brink of starting my Materials Science and Engineering degree as a first-year student. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my previously introverted and reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and where am I positioned now?
One of the earliest and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This is often one of the most daunting parts of beginning university, and if you are a prospective student, it might be your biggest source of anxiety. On the first day of moving into my residence, just days ahead of the term, I spent the entire day sequestered in my room, too fearful to venture out and meet others. Today, I can proudly affirm that I have formed some of the finest friendships I’ve ever had here at this university and within this program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all commenced with casual conversations with others in comparable situations. So, what have I learned? I’ve gained the insight that taking a chance at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you aren’t quite ready or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaking activities and events to facilitate connections with others. I also learned that if you can embody one principle, let it be to be yourself. With such a diverse array of individuals across the program and university, you are sure to encounter those who you connect with.
Another obstacle was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the material. There was undoubtedly a significant transition from A-levels, and in certain respects, an even larger shift from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such an atmosphere can be challenging for your self-esteem; you may observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few elements assisted me in overcoming that sensation, one being the reminder that everyone shares the same experience. If you don’t grasp something, I can nearly assure you that others are struggling too. Therefore, seek assistance. This might be the single most crucial lesson to learn in your first year. Reach out to both your peers and the faculty for support!
This brings me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They truly want you to excel and acknowledge the challenges students encounter. They empathize with student experiences and maintain ongoing communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t truly utilize the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had accessed it earlier. I mentioned taking risks beforehand – I took one at the start of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This role enabled me to connect with the faculty members, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous opportunities to get acquainted with the staff, and it’s certainly one of the most beneficial actions you can take for yourself! My primary takeaway from this aspect of university is to leverage the support that is available. You can’t have too much!
In summary, this year has demonstrated to me that feelings of nervousness, both before and during university, are frequently baseless and can be mitigated through the various support systems provided by staff and fellow students. It has shown me that I am never truly alone and how to find enjoyment despite pressures such as exams and deadlines.