Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, 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 unfamiliar was not something my previously timid and reserved self was used to. Looking back on the past academic year, I perceive a journey of personal development, challenges, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained this year, and what is my current stance?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This is undoubtedly one of the more daunting elements of starting university, and if you’re perusing this as a potential student, it may be among your primary worries. On my inaugural day moving into my residence, a few days prior to the term starting, I spent the whole day cloistered in my room, too daunted to venture out and meet people. However, reflecting today, I can assertively claim that I’ve developed some of the finest friendships I have ever experienced, both at this university and within this program. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all commenced with trivial conversations with others in comparable situations. So, what did I acquire? I discovered that it’s always advantageous to take a risk at the beginning of the year. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker activities and events designed to facilitate connections with others. I also found that if you can embrace one thing, be yourself. With such a diverse group of individuals in the course and university, you are sure to encounter those who connect with you.
Another challenge was managing the workload and the difficulty of the content. There was certainly a significant progression from A-levels, and in some respects, an even more considerable leap from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such an environment can be daunting for your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel insufficient. A few strategies assisted me during that sentiment, one being the reminder that everyone is navigating the same circumstances. If you don’t grasp something, I can nearly assure you that there are others who don’t either. Thus, seek assistance. This might be the single most crucial lesson to learn in the first year. Reach out for support from your peers and the faculty!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials are remarkable. They genuinely desire your success and comprehend that students encounter challenges. They are sympathetic toward students and continuously communicate with us throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I alluded to taking leaps earlier – I made one at the beginning of the year by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This role enabled me to familiarize myself with the staff members, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous avenues to connect with the staff, and it is undeniably one of the best decisions you can make for yourself! My primary takeaway from this aspect of university is to utilize the support available. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has enlightened me that feelings of nervousness, both before and during university, are frequently unfounded and can be mitigated by the various support systems offered by staff and fellow students. It has shown me that I’m never isolated, and it has illustrated how to embrace enjoyment amidst stressors like exams and deadlines.