Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of commencing my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Diving into the unfamiliar wasn’t something my formerly timid and reserved self was used to. Looking back, I recognize a year abundant with personal development, challenges, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This is undoubtedly one of the more fearsome elements of embarking on university life, and if you’re an incoming student perusing this, it may rank among your top worries. On my initial day moving into my residence, a few days prior to the start of classes, I spent the entire day hiding in my room, too daunted to venture out and meet others. However, sitting here now, I can assertively state that I’ve formed some of the finest friendships ever, right here at this university and within this program. I’ve built a second family at Imperial, and all it required was striking up casual conversations with individuals in similar circumstances. So, what did I acquire? 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 fret! There will be plenty of ice-breaking chances and gatherings to facilitate connections with others. I also learned that authenticity is essential. With such a diverse array of individuals throughout the course and university, you’re sure to encounter like-minded peers.
An additional challenge was the volume of work and the complexity of the material. There was certainly a noticeable increase from A-levels, and in certain respects, an even greater leap from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such an environment doesn’t always bolster your confidence; you may observe others studying and feel insufficient. A few strategies assisted me in overcoming that sensation, one being the reminder that everyone is facing the same challenges. If you’re struggling to grasp something, I can nearly assure you that others are too. So, don’t hesitate to ask for help. This might be the most crucial skill to cultivate during your first year. Reach out for support from your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my next observation. The staff in Materials are remarkable. They are invested in your success and are aware of the challenges students encounter. They show empathy toward students and maintain ongoing communication with us throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. I mentioned taking risks earlier – I did take one at the start of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to connect with the staff members, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous avenues to engage with the staff, and it’s undoubtedly one of the best actions you can take for yourself! My primary takeaway from this facet of university life is to make the most of the resources available. You can never have too much assistance!
Ultimately, this year has revealed to me that feelings of nervousness, both before and during university, are often unfounded and can be alleviated through the various support options accessible from staff and fellow students. It has taught me that I’m never alone and how to relish experiences alongside stressors like exams and deadlines.