Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly ten months ago, in October 2022, I found myself filled with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the cusp of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Diving into the unknown was not something my previously shy and reserved nature was ready for. Looking back, though, I see a year brimming with personal development, challenges, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained this year, and where do I stand now?
One of the earliest and most intimidating challenges I encountered was forming friendships. This is undoubtedly one of the more daunting parts of embarking on university life, and if you are contemplating this journey, it might be a significant worry for you. On my first day of moving into my residence, a few days prior to the term’s commencement, I spent the entire day sequestered in my room because I felt too shy to step out and meet others. Sitting here today, though, I can affirm that I’ve cultivated some of the best friendships I’ve ever had, both at this university and within this program. I’ve built a second family here at Imperial, all it took was striking up casual conversations with individuals in similar situations. So, what lesson did I take away? I realized that it’s always beneficial to take a risk at the beginning of the year. If you’re not quite ready or comfortable yet, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaking opportunities and events designed to help you engage with others. I also learned that if you can embody one thing, let it be your true self. With so many diverse individuals across the program and university, you are sure to discover people just like you.
Another challenge I needed to tackle was the workload and the intensity of the material. There was definitely a leap from A-levels, and in many ways, an even more significant transition from the first term to the second. Being plunged into such an environment can be a blow to your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few things aided me in overcoming that sensation, one being the reassurance that everyone is navigating the same struggles. If something is unclear to you, I can almost assure you that several others share your confusion. Therefore, seek assistance. This may very well be the most crucial skill to develop in your first year. Don’t hesitate to request support from your fellow students and the faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to succeed, and they understand that students face difficulties. They relate to us and maintain ongoing communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned earlier about taking risks – I did take one by stepping into the role of a year well-being representative at the beginning of the year. This position allowed me to familiarize myself with the staff members, an incredibly beneficial endeavor. There are numerous avenues to connect with staff, and it’s certainly one of the most rewarding things you can do for yourself! My main lesson from this facet of university life is to make the most of the assistance available to you. You can never have an excess of support!
Overall, this year has imparted to me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are nearly always unwarranted and can be mitigated by the numerous support resources provided by faculty and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never alone, and it has shown me how to find joy even amid stressors like exams and deadlines.