Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding what lay ahead. I was about to embark on my journey toward a degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unknown was not a familiar experience for my once shy and reserved self. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and plenty of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is often one of the most nerve-wracking parts of beginning university, and if you’re a future student, it may be a significant worry for you. On my first day of moving into my accommodation, a few days ahead of classes, I spent the whole day concealed in my room, too afraid to step outside and meet others. Now, I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever had here at this university and within this program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and all it required was engaging in light conversation with people in similar situations. So, what did I discover? I realized that taking a chance at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you’re not feeling fully prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker events and gatherings to help you connect with your peers. I also learned that if you can embody one thing, let it be your true self. With such a diverse group of individuals across the course and university, you’re sure to find others who share your vibe.
Another obstacle was the challenge of the workload and the complexity of the content. There was certainly a jump from A-levels, and in some respects, an even larger leap from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such an environment can shake your confidence; you might witness others studying and feel inadequate. A few insights helped me navigate this feeling, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re struggling to understand something, I can almost assure you there are others who feel the same. So, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson to absorb in your first year. Seek guidance from your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely want you to thrive and realize that students face challenges. They relate to us and maintain ongoing communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t take advantage of the pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking chances earlier – I seized one at the start of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This role enabled me to connect with the staff, which is extremely beneficial. There are countless ways to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the best decisions you can make for yourself! My key takeaway from this aspect of university is to utilize the assistance available. You can never have too much support!
All in all, this year has shown me that feelings of apprehension, both before and during university, are often baseless and can be alleviated by the myriad support options offered by staff and fellow students. It’s taught me that I’m never alone and how to have fun alongside challenges like exams and deadlines.