Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead as I geared up to embark on my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Immersing myself in the unfamiliar was not a routine I was used to as someone who had previously been more reserved. Now, looking back, I recognize a year replete with personal development, hurdles, and enjoyment. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
One of the first and most intimidating obstacles was forming friendships. This aspect often weighs heavily on new university students, and if you happen to be reading this as a prospective student, you might be contemplating it as well. On my inaugural day moving into my residence, I remained in my room the entire day, feeling too daunted to step outside and interact with others. Today, I proudly state that I have formed some of the finest friendships during my time here at university and within my program. I have established a second family at Imperial, which all began with casual conversations with others in comparable circumstances. So, what did I discover? I realized that taking the initiative at the beginning of the year is essential. If you’re feeling unprepared or uncomfortable, don’t fret! There are numerous ice-breaking events designed to assist you in connecting with others. I also found that authenticity is vital. With the rich diversity at the university, you are sure to meet individuals who align with your interests.
Another hurdle was handling the workload and the complexity of the material. There was a significant leap from A-levels, and an even steeper one from the first to the second term. Immersed in such an atmosphere can impact your self-esteem; you may feel inadequate in comparison to peers. What assisted me was the realization that everyone is navigating a similar journey. If something is unclear to you, it is likely that others feel the same. Hence, don’t hesitate to seek help. This is arguably the most crucial lesson for the first year. Reach out to both fellow students and staff for assistance!
This brings me to my subsequent point. The staff in the Materials department are exceptional. They are invested in your success and comprehend the challenges that students encounter. They are compassionate and maintain open lines of communication regarding our concerns. I did not fully leverage the pastoral support until later in the academic year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner. I spoke earlier of taking leaps – I made one by stepping into the role of a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to build connections with staff members, which is invaluable. There are numerous avenues to engage with staff, and it is one of the most beneficial actions you can take for yourself! My primary lesson is to capitalize on the support available. You can never have too much assistance!
This year has broadly instilled in me that anxious feelings, both prior to and during university, are frequently baseless and can be mitigated through the support afforded by staff and fellow students. It has demonstrated that I am never truly alone and has taught me how to derive enjoyment from my experience despite pressures like exams and deadlines.