Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, apprehension, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously shy and introverted self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, 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 parts of beginning university, and if you’re a future student, it may be a significant worry for you. On the very first day of moving into my residence, just a few days before the semester commenced, I spent the entire day sequestered in my room, too afraid to venture out and meet others. However, today, I can proudly state that I’ve forged some of the best friendships here at university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with casual conversations with individuals in similar circumstances. So, what did I learn? It’s important to take the plunge at the beginning of the year. If you’re not prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There are numerous ice-breaking activities to assist you in connecting with others. I also discovered that being authentic is essential. With such a wide array of people throughout the course and the university, you’re sure to encounter those who align with you.
Another obstacle was the workload and the complexity of the material. There was a stark increase from A-levels, and even more so from the first term to the second. Being in such a setting can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inferior. What aided me was the reminder that everyone is navigating the same challenges. If you’re struggling to grasp a concept, chances are others are too. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This may be the most vital skill to cultivate in your first year. Reach out to classmates and faculty!
This brings me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are remarkable. They genuinely wish for your success and understand the challenges that students face. They empathize and maintain ongoing communication throughout the year regarding our issues. I didn’t make full use of the support systems until the end of the year, but I wish I had started sooner. I mentioned taking bold steps earlier – I took one by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which is invaluable. There are several ways to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the best things you can do for yourself! My main takeaway is to make the most of the support available. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are often baseless and can be mitigated with the assistance available from staff and fellow students. It’s demonstrated that I’m never alone and how to find joy, even amid pressures like exams and deadlines.