Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I was filled with anxiety and uncertainty regarding what lay ahead as I embarked on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Stepping into the unknown was an experience my formerly shy self was not used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year packed with personal development, challenges, and enjoyment. What insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the earliest and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This can be a daunting task when entering university, and if you’re an incoming student, it might be a significant worry. On my initial day of moving into accommodations, prior to the start of the term, I spent the whole day inside my room, too daunted to venture out and meet others. Now, I can proudly declare that I’ve forged some of the best friendships here at university and within my program. I’ve found a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with those in similar positions. What did I discover? It’s important to take a chance at the start of the year. If you feel unprepared, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker events designed to help you engage with others. Also, if there’s one thing you should be, it’s yourself. With such a diverse array of individuals across the course and university, you’re sure to encounter like-minded people.
Another obstacle was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the content. There was a distinct leap from A-levels, and an even more significant leap from the first to the second term. Being in this environment can put a strain on your self-esteem; you might feel insufficient when compared to your peers. Keep in mind that everyone is facing similar challenges. If you’re struggling to grasp a concept, others likely are as well. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek help. This could be the paramount lesson learned in the first year. Reach out for assistance from classmates and instructors!
The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the difficulties students encounter. They show understanding and keep lines of communication open regarding our challenges throughout the year. I didn’t make full use of the pastoral support until the year was nearly over, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking chances – I embraced one by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position helped me build connections with staff, which is invaluable. There are numerous ways to familiarize yourself with faculty, and it’s one of the best decisions you can make for your well-being! My key takeaway is to embrace the resources available to you. You can never have too much support!
In summary, this year has taught me that feelings of apprehension about university are frequently unwarranted and can be alleviated by the assistance from both staff and fellow students. It has illustrated that I’m never isolated and has guided me on how to enjoy my time, even amidst stressors such as exams and deadlines.