Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, apprehension, and uncertainty regarding the future. I was on the verge of commencing my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously shy and withdrawn self was familiar with. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and plenty of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself now?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was establishing friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting elements of starting university, and if you’re an incoming student, it might be a significant worry for you. On my first day settling into my accommodation, just days before classes started, I spent the whole day in my room, too scared to venture out and introduce myself to others. Today, however, I can confidently assert that I’ve developed some of the most meaningful friendships here at this university and in my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, all of which initiated through casual conversations with those in similar situations. So, what have I learned? I found that taking a chance at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you’re not entirely prepared or at ease, don’t stress! There will be numerous ice-breaking activities and events to assist you in connecting with others. I also discovered that remaining true to oneself is vital. With such a wide range of individuals across the program and university, you’re sure to encounter those who resonate with you.
Another challenge was the intensity of the workload and difficulty of the material. There was undoubtedly a marked increase from A-levels, and in certain ways, an even larger jump from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such an atmosphere can impact your self-esteem; you may observe others studying and feel inadequate. Several aspects helped me conquer this sensation, one being the reminder that everyone shares similar experiences. If you’re struggling to grasp something, I can almost assure you that others are in the same situation. So, don’t hesitate to ask for help. This may be the most essential skill to nurture in your first year. Seek guidance from your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely want you to succeed and recognize the challenges students encounter. They empathize with us and maintain ongoing communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully embrace the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner. I mentioned taking risks earlier – I made one at the beginning of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with staff, and it’s one of the best things you can do for yourself! My primary lesson from this aspect of university is to make the most of the support available. You can never have too much!
Ultimately, this year has taught me that the anxious feelings leading up to and during university are often baseless and can be eased with the various support resources provided by staff and fellow students. It has revealed to me that I’m never isolated and has shown me how to enjoy myself in spite of stressors such as exams and deadlines.