Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what awaited me. I was about to embark on my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Stepping into the unknown was not something my formerly shy self was used to. Reflecting back, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, challenges, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most frightening aspects of starting university, and for prospective students, it may be a significant worry. On my first day moving into my dorm, a few days prior to the semester starting, I remained in my room the whole day, too nervous to step out and introduce myself. Now, I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the best friendships here at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all commenced with casual conversations with individuals in similar predicaments. So, what lesson did I take away? It’s crucial to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you’re not prepared or comfortable, don’t stress! There will be numerous ice-breaker activities to assist you in connecting with others. Additionally, if you can embody one thing, be authentic. With such a diverse group of people throughout the course and university, you’re sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another hurdle was the workload and the complexity of the content. There was certainly a leap from A-levels, and even more so from the first term to the second. Being in such an atmosphere can challenge your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few things supported me through this, one being the reminder that everyone experiences similar struggles. If something confuses you, I can almost assure you that others are perplexed too. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This could be the most crucial skill to acquire in your first year. Reach out for help from peers and faculty!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials are fantastic. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize the challenges students encounter. They show empathy and maintain ongoing communication throughout the year. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until later on, but I wish I had done so sooner. I mentioned taking chances – I did take one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position provided me with the opportunity to connect with the staff, which is invaluable. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the best things you can do for yourself! My primary takeaway is to make the most of the support available. You can never have too much!
All in all, this year has enlightened me that feelings of nervousness, both before and during university, are often baseless and can be mitigated with the support from staff and fellow students. It has demonstrated to me that I am never alone and how to find enjoyment despite the pressures from exams and deadlines.