Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
In October 2022, ten months ago, I was filled with anxiety and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the brink of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I can see a year filled with personal development, challenges, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current state?
One of the initial and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting parts of beginning university, and if you are reading this as a future student, it might be a significant worry for you. On my first day moving into my accommodation, a few days prior to the term commencing, I spent the whole day in my room, feeling too nervous to go out and socialize. Now, I can assertively say I’ve created some of the best friendships here at university and within my course. I’ve established a second family at Imperial, and it all started with casual conversations with others in similar circumstances. So, what did I discover? I realized that taking a bold step at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you’re not ready or feel uneasy, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker events to facilitate connections with others. I also found that being authentic is crucial. With a wide array of diverse individuals across the course and university, you are sure to encounter like-minded people.
Another hurdle was the workload and the complexity of the material. There was a discernible increase from A-levels, and an even larger jump from the first to the second term. Being in such an atmosphere can be taxing on your confidence; you may observe others studying and feel insufficient. A few strategies aided me during this time, one being the reminder that we are all experiencing similar challenges. If something is unclear to you, I can almost assure you others are confused as well. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most critical lesson to grasp in your first year. Reach out to peers and faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials is exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and are aware of the difficulties students encounter. They show understanding and maintain regular communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t take full advantage of the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking bold steps before – I took one at the start of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which is incredibly beneficial. There are various ways to engage with the faculty, and it’s one of the most rewarding things you can do for yourself! My primary insight is to make the most of the assistance available. You can never have an excess of support!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are typically unfounded and can be mitigated with the support systems available from faculty and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never alone and how to find enjoyment even amidst stressors like exams and deadlines.