Authored by Dawson La, MEng in Materials Science and Engineering
Reflecting back ten months to October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was about to embark on my journey as a first-year student in Materials Science and Engineering. Embracing the unfamiliar was not something my previously timid 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 did this year provide, and where do I find myself now?
A major initial hurdle I encountered was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting parts of starting university, and if you’re considering this path, it may be one of your primary worries. On my first day settling into my accommodation, just days before classes started, I spent the whole day secluded in my room, too frightened to venture out and meet others. Fast forward to today, and I can proudly say I’ve forged some of the best friendships I’ve ever had, here at this university and in this program. I’ve found a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with individuals in similar circumstances. So, what did I take away from this experience? I discovered that taking a chance at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be ample ice-breaking activities and events designed to help you connect with others. I also understood the importance of being genuine. With so many diverse individuals across the course and campus, you’re sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another challenge I faced was the academic workload and difficulty of the material. There was certainly a noticeable increase from A-levels, and in some regards, an even more significant jump from the first term to the second. Being thrown into such a setting can dent your confidence; you might witness others studying and feel inadequate in comparison. A few strategies helped me cope with that sensation, one being the understanding that everyone is navigating the same challenges. If you find something confusing, I can almost assure you that there are others who do too. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most crucial skill to cultivate during your first year. Reach out to your peers and the faculty for support!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and acknowledge that students encounter difficulties. They show understanding and maintain ongoing communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully utilize the available pastoral support until the year’s end, which I regret not doing sooner. I mentioned earlier about taking leaps – and I did take one at the beginning of the year by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position allowed me to build relationships with the staff, which is incredibly valuable. There are numerous opportunities to connect with faculty, and it’s one of the most beneficial things you can do for yourself! My primary lesson from this aspect of university life is to make the most of the support offered. 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 unfounded and can be eased with the various support options accessible from faculty and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never alone and how to find joy amidst the stressors like exams and deadlines.