Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Almost a year ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about the future as I readied myself to start my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Diving into the unknown was not something my previously reserved self was used to. Looking back at the past academic year, I view it as a time of personal development, challenges, and fun. But what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself now?
One of the first and most intimidating obstacles was making friendships. This is frequently one of the most frightening elements of beginning university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be a significant worry for you. On my initial day of moving into my accommodation, a few days prior to the semester starting, I spent the whole day in my room, too daunted to step outside and introduce myself to others. However, now I can proudly say that I’ve established some of the best friendships I’ve ever had at this university and within this course. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all commenced with casual conversations with individuals in similar situations. So, what did I learn? I discovered that taking a risk at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t panic! There will be numerous ice-breaking chances and events to assist you in connecting with others. I also found that being authentic is the most effective approach. With so many different people throughout the course and university, you’re sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another hurdle was handling the workload and the difficulty of the content. There was indeed a significant increase from A-levels, and in some respects, an even larger leap from the first term to the second. Being in such an environment can be taxing for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel insufficient. A few strategies helped me overcome this sentiment, one being the reminder that everyone faces similar challenges. If you don’t grasp something, it’s highly likely that others don’t either. So, seek assistance. This may be the most essential skill to cultivate in your first year. Look for help from your peers and the faculty!
This brings me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to succeed and understand the challenges students face. They empathize with us and maintain ongoing communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had done so sooner. I mentioned taking risks earlier – I made one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which is incredibly valuable. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the best decisions you can make for yourself! My key takeaway from this segment of university life is to leverage the support available. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has enlightened me that anxious feelings, both before and during university, are frequently unfounded and can be alleviated with the various support options accessible from faculty and fellow students. It has shown me that I’m never alone and how to find enjoyment alongside pressures like exams and deadlines.