By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unknown was foreign territory for my formerly shy self. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, hurdles, and plenty of enjoyable moments! So, what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the early and most intimidating obstacles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting parts of beginning university, and if you’re a soon-to-be student, it may be a significant worry for you. On my first day of moving into my accommodation, a few days prior to classes starting, I spent the whole day in my room, feeling too intimidated to venture out and meet people. Now, I can affirm that I’ve formed some of the best friendships here at university and in my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, all beginning with casual conversations with those in similar situations. So, what did I take away from this? It’s crucial to take a chance at the start of the year. If you’re not ready or comfortable, don’t fret! There will be plenty of ice-breakers and events to help you connect with others. I also learned that authenticity is essential. With such a diverse group of individuals throughout the course and university, you’re sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another challenge was managing the workload and the difficulty of the content. There was a significant leap from A-levels, and an even more considerable leap from the first term to the second. Being in such an atmosphere can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. What assisted me was the reminder that everyone is experiencing similar struggles. If you don’t grasp something, chances are others don’t either. Therefore, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This may be the most vital lesson in your first year. Reach out to peers and staff!
This leads me to my next observation. The staff in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the challenges students encounter. They show understanding and keep in touch with us throughout the academic year. I didn’t fully engage with the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking chances previously – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to familiarize myself with the staff, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to connect with the staff, and it’s one of the best things you can do for yourself! My primary takeaway is to capitalize on the support available. There’s no such thing as too much!
All in all, this year taught me that the anxieties surrounding university are mostly unfounded and can be eased with the support from staff and fellow students. It illustrated that I’m never alone and revealed how to find enjoyment even amid pressures like exams and deadlines.