By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Back in October 2022, ten months ago, I found myself feeling anxious and uncertain about the future. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unknown was not something my traditionally shy self was used to. Reflecting on the past year, I can see it was filled with personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what have I learned throughout this year, and what is my current situation?
One of the initial and most intimidating challenges was making connections. This is often regarded as one of the most daunting aspects of commencing university, and for those considering this path, it may be a significant concern. On my moving day, I spent the whole day in my room, feeling too overwhelmed to step outside and socialize. Now, I can proudly proclaim that I have formed some of the most meaningful friendships of my life here at university. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with others in similar circumstances. So, what is my takeaway? It’s essential to take a leap at the beginning of the year. If you’re not ready or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaking events to facilitate connections with others. I’ve also realized that being your true self is crucial. With such a diverse array of individuals in the course and university, you are bound to encounter like-minded peers.
An additional hurdle was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the material. There was undeniably a leap from A-levels, and even a more significant shift from the first term to the second. Being in such an environment can challenge your confidence; you may observe others studying and feel inadequate in comparison. What proved to be beneficial for me was keeping in mind that everyone is navigating the same challenges. If you find yourself struggling to comprehend something, chances are others are too. So, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This might be the most vital lesson to grasp in your first year. Seek support from classmates and faculty!
The faculty in the Materials department are exceptional. They genuinely want you to succeed and recognize the challenges students encounter. They show empathy and maintain open lines of communication regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. At the beginning of the year, I took a bold step by becoming a well-being representative for the year. This position allowed me to connect with the staff, which is immensely beneficial. There are various ways to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the most advantageous actions you can take for yourself! My key takeaway is to capitalize on the support that’s available. You can never have too much help!
This year has fundamentally taught me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are often unfounded and can be mitigated by the support from faculty and fellow students. It has shown me that I am never truly alone and has given me the ability to enjoy my time even amidst stressors such as exams and deadlines.