Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Approximately ten months ago, in October 2022, I found myself feeling anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Embarking on this new journey was not something my formerly reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I can see a year brimming with personal development, obstacles, and a great deal 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 elements of starting university, and if you’re an incoming student, it could be a significant worry for you. On my initial day moving into my accommodation, a few days prior to the commencement of classes, I remained in my room all day, feeling too daunted to venture out and meet others. Fast forward to now, I can assert with confidence that I’ve made some of the finest friends I’ve ever had, right 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 experiencing similar feelings. So, what did I take away from this? It’s wise to make a bold move early on in the year. If you’re not ready or at ease, don’t fret! There are numerous ice-breaker activities available to assist you in connecting with others. Additionally, if there’s one piece of advice to follow, it’s to be yourself. With such a diverse range of people in the course and university, you’re sure to find others who share your interests.
Another significant challenge was managing the workload and the complexity of the material. There was indeed a noticeable increase from A-levels, and in some respects, an even steeper transition from the first to the second term. Being in such an environment can take a toll on your confidence; you might witness others studying and start to feel inadequate. What aid my journey was the realization that everyone experiences similar challenges. If there’s something you don’t grasp, I can almost assure you that others are in the same position. Therefore, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This could very well be the most crucial skill to cultivate in your first year. Seek support from peers and faculty!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials are remarkable. They genuinely want you to thrive and are aware of the difficulties faced by students. They relate to us and keep open communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t utilize the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had done so earlier. I previously mentioned taking risks – I took one by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which is extremely beneficial. There are numerous avenues to engage with faculty, and this is one of the best things you can do for your own benefit! My primary lesson is to utilize the assistance provided. There’s no such thing as too much help!
In summary, this year has revealed to me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are often unwarranted and can be mitigated by the support that staff and fellow students provide. It has illustrated that I am never alone and has taught me how to find enjoyment even amidst pressures such as exams and deadlines.