By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the brink of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a newcomer. Diving into the unknown was not something my previously timid and reserved self was used to. Looking back on the last academic year, I see a path of 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 first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting parts of commencing university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be a significant worry for you. On my initial day moving into my accommodation, just days ahead of the term starting, I spent the whole day secluded in my room, too daunted to go out and meet others. Today, however, I can proudly state that I’ve forged some of the finest friendships here at this university and in my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with others in like circumstances. So, what have I learned? I realized that taking a chance at the start of the year is always beneficial. If you’re not quite prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be ample ice-breaking chances and events to help you connect with others. I also learned that if you can be anything, be authentic. With the diversity of individuals across the course and university, you are sure to find kindred spirits.
Another challenge involved managing the workload and the complexity of the content. There was certainly an increase from A-levels, and in many ways, a significant jump from the first term to the second. Being thrown into such an environment can be tough on your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel insufficient. A few factors helped me navigate that sensation, one being the reminder that everyone shares the same experience. If you’re struggling to grasp something, I can almost guarantee that others are too. So, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This could be the most vital lesson to learn in your first year. Seek support from your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The staff in Materials are remarkable. They genuinely want you to do well and recognize the challenges that students encounter. They relate to us and keep open lines of communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I spoke of taking chances previously – I took one at the year’s start by becoming a well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the faculty members, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with staff, and it’s undoubtedly one of the best things you can do for your own benefit! My primary takeaway from this dimension of university is to capitalize on the support available. You can never have too much!
All in all, this year has taught me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are frequently baseless and can be alleviated through the various support resources provided by faculty and fellow students. It’s shown me that I’m never alone and how to find enjoyment despite pressures like exams and deadlines.