Composed by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I found myself overwhelmed with anxiety, trepidation, and uncertainty about the future. I was on the brink of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into unfamiliar territory was not something my formerly timid and reserved nature was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with considerable personal development, challenges, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the initial and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This is often regarded as one of the most daunting parts of initiating university life, and if you’re an incoming student, it could be your primary concern. On my first day settling into my accommodation, a few days prior to the start of classes, I spent the whole day retreating to my room, too daunted to step outside and introduce myself. Now, I can proudly state that I’ve formed some of the finest friendships I’ve ever had, here at this university and in my program. I’ve built a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with casual conversations with individuals in similar situations. So, what did I discover? I realized that embracing opportunities at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you feel unprepared or uneasy, don’t stress! There will be numerous ice-breaker activities to assist you in connecting with others. I also discovered that authenticity is essential. With a multitude of diverse individuals throughout the course and university, you are sure to encounter those who match your vibe.
Another obstacle was coping with the coursework and the difficulty of material. There was certainly a leap from A-levels, and in some respects, an even steeper ascent from the first term to the second. Being in such a setting can be hard on your self-esteem; you may observe others studying and feel inferior. What guided me through this was the reminder that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you find a concept perplexing, I can almost assure you that others are struggling too. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most vital skill to cultivate in your first year. Reach out to colleagues and faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize that students face challenges. They show understanding and maintain ongoing communication throughout the year regarding our issues. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until late in the year, but I wish I had sought it out earlier. I spoke of taking leaps previously – I took one at the year’s onset by becoming a well-being representative. This position enabled me to familiarize myself with the staff, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to interact with faculty, and it’s among the best choices you can make for yourself! My principal takeaway from this element of university is to capitalize on the assistance provided. You can never overindulge in support!
In summary, this year has revealed to me that feelings of apprehension, both before and during university, are frequently unfounded and can be eased through the various support resources accessible from faculty and fellow students. It has demonstrated that I’m never truly alone and has taught me how to find joy amid challenges like exams and deadlines.