Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. As a first-year student, I was about to embark on my degree in Materials Science and Engineering. Entering the unfamiliar was not something my shy and introverted self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the first and most daunting challenges was forming friendships. This is undoubtedly one of the more fearsome parts of starting university, and for prospective students, it might be a major worry. On my first day of moving into my housing, just days before classes started, I spent the entire day in my room, feeling too intimidated to go out and meet others. Now, I can proudly say that I’ve formed some of the finest friendships here at this university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with casual conversations with those in similar situations. So, what did I discover? I realized that taking a chance at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you’re feeling unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! There are numerous ice-breaker activities to help you engage with others. I also came to understand that being authentic is essential. With such a diverse group of individuals throughout the course and university, you’re certain to encounter like-minded people.
Another hurdle was the academic load and difficulty of the content. There was indeed a noticeable increase from A-levels, and in many ways, an even greater jump from the first term to the second. Being in such a setting can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel insufficient. A few strategies aided me during this time, one being the reminder that everyone shares similar struggles. If you’re having trouble grasping a concept, I can nearly guarantee that others are too. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This could be the most crucial lesson to embrace in your first year. Reach out for help from your classmates and faculty!
This brings me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and acknowledge the challenges students encounter. They relate to students and keep up consistent communication throughout the year regarding any concerns. I didn’t make use of pastoral support until the latter part of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I spoke of taking risks earlier – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to connect with the faculty, which is immensely beneficial. There are various ways to engage with staff, and it’s among the best things you can do for yourself! My principal lesson from this part of university is to take full advantage of the assistance available. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has demonstrated to me that feelings of nervousness, both before and during university, are frequently unfounded and can be eased with the multitude of support resources available from staff and fellow students. It has revealed that I am never alone and has taught me how to have fun amidst pressures such as exams and deadlines.