Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was about to embark on my studies in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously timid and reserved self was familiar with. Upon reflection, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and plenty of enjoyment! So, what insights have I gained this year, and what is my current situation?
One of the first and most frightening hurdles was forming friendships. This is undoubtedly one of the more daunting aspects of commencing university, and if you’re a prospective student reading this, it might be among your foremost concerns. On my initial day of moving into my accommodation, a few days prior to the start of the term, I spent the entire day cloistered in my room, too fearful to venture out and socialize. Now, sitting here today, I can assert that I’ve forged some of the greatest friendships I’ve ever had at this university and within this course. I discovered a second family at Imperial, and everything began with engaging in light conversation with peers in similar predicaments. So, what did I learn? I discovered that taking a chance at the beginning of the year is essential. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, that’s okay! Numerous ice-breaking opportunities and events will be available to facilitate connections with others. I also learned that if you can embody one quality, let it be authenticity. With a diverse array of individuals across the course and university, you are sure to encounter those who resonate with you.
A further challenge was the demanding workload and complexity of the material. There was undoubtedly a shift from A-levels, and in some respects, an even more significant transition from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such a setting can shake your confidence; you might observe your peers studying and feel inadequate. A few strategies helped me navigate that sensation, one being the acknowledgment that everyone shares similar experiences. If you find something perplexing, I can nearly assure you that others are struggling with it too. Therefore, seek assistance. This may be the most crucial lesson to embrace in your first year. Don’t hesitate to ask for help from your fellow students and faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely want you to succeed and understand that students face difficulties. They empathize with us and maintain open lines of communication throughout the year regarding our challenges. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral care until the end of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I spoke of taking leaps before – I took one at the beginning of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This role allowed me to familiarize myself with staff members, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and it is undoubtedly one of the most rewarding things you can do for yourself! My primary lesson in this regard is to make the most of the support available to you. You can never have too much assistance!
All in all, this year has taught me that feelings of nervousness, both in the lead-up to and during university, are often unwarranted and can be mitigated with the various support systems available from faculty and fellow students. It has shown me that I am never alone, and it has demonstrated how to find joy amidst pressures like exams and deadlines.