By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious and unsure about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Embracing the unknown was not something my previously reserved self was ready for. Looking back, I see a year filled with personal development, challenges, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what have I discovered, and what is my current situation?
One of the first and most intimidating challenges was forming friendships. This usually stands as one of the most frightening aspects of entering university, and if you’re a potential student, it could be a significant worry. On my first day at my residence, a few days prior to classes starting, I spent the whole day in my room, too anxious to step out and meet people. Now, I can proudly say that I’ve made some amazing friends here at university and within my program. I’ve found a second family at Imperial, all initiated by casual conversations with others in similar predicaments. So, what did I grasp? It’s crucial to take a plunge at the beginning of the year. If you aren’t ready, that’s perfectly fine! There will be numerous ice-breaker events to assist you in connecting with others. Additionally, above all else, be true to yourself. With such a diverse array of people throughout the course and university, you’re sure to meet kindred spirits.
Another hurdle was the volume of work and the difficulty of the content. There was a significant leap from A-levels, and an even more substantial leap from the first to the second term. Being in such a setting can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might feel inferior compared to your peers. What aided me was the realization that everyone is experiencing the same struggles. If something is unclear to you, it’s likely others feel the same. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This could be the most vital lesson of the first year. Reach out to peers and faculty!
The staff in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to succeed and understand the challenges students face. They sympathize and keep open lines of communication regarding our concerns. I did not fully take advantage of the support services until the end of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I spoke about taking leaps – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position facilitated my connection with staff, which is invaluable. There are numerous avenues to get to know staff, and it’s one of the best things you can do for yourself! My main lesson is to leverage the support available. You can never have too much!
This year has broadly taught me that nervous feelings surrounding university are often baseless and can be eased with the assistance available from staff and students. I’ve discovered that I’m never alone and how to have fun despite stressors like exams and deadlines.