Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, trepidation, and uncertainty regarding the future. I was on the verge of commencing my studies in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my formerly shy and reserved self was prepared for. Reflecting on the past year, I recognize it as a time of development, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
One of the initial and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting aspects of beginning university, and if you are an incoming student, it may be a concern on your mind. On my first day of moving into my accommodation, a few days ahead of the term kick-off, I spent the whole day secluded in my room, too afraid to venture out and introduce myself to others. Now, I can proudly say I’ve forged some of the finest friendships I’ve ever experienced at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all originated from light conversations with individuals in similar circumstances. So, what did I realize? It’s crucial to take a risk at the onset of the year. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker chances and activities designed to facilitate connections with others. I also discovered that if you can be anything, embrace being yourself. With such a diverse array of individuals throughout the course and university, you’re sure to encounter those who resonate with you.
Another challenge was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the material. There was certainly a shift from A-levels, and in some aspects, an even greater leap from the first term to the second. Being surrounded by such an atmosphere can be challenging for your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. What aided me during this time was the realization that everyone shares the same experiences. If you struggle to grasp something, I can almost assure you that others do too. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This could be the most vital lesson to grasp in the first year. Reach out to your peers and the faculty for support!
This brings me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize that students face difficulties. They empathize with us and ensure consistent communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until the year’s conclusion, but I wish I had done so earlier. I spoke earlier about taking risks – I took one at the beginning of the year by serving as a year well-being representative. This role enabled me to connect with the faculty, which is immensely beneficial. There are many avenues to become acquainted with the staff, and it’s one of the best actions you can undertake for yourself! My principal takeaway from this aspect of university life is to fully engage with the support available. You can never have too much help!
In summary, this year has taught me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are often baseless and can be eased with the support resources provided by faculty and fellow students. I’ve learned that I’m never truly alone and how to find enjoyment even in the face of pressures such as exams and deadlines.