Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what the future held. I was on the verge of starting my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a fresh student. Stepping into the unfamiliar was not something my formerly shy and reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and a lot of joy! So, what insights have I gained this year, and what is my current standing?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This aspect of starting university can often be one of the most daunting, and if you are an incoming student, it might be a significant worry for you. On my inaugural day moving into my residence, a few days prior to the start of classes, I spent the whole day in my room, too daunted to step out and introduce myself. However, today I can proudly say that I’ve forged some of the best friendships ever, here at this institution and through this program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with others in similar situations. So, what did I discover? I learned that taking a leap at the beginning of the year is always beneficial. If you feel unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker opportunities and events designed to help you connect with others. I also learned that if there’s one thing to be, it’s yourself. With a diverse range of individuals across the course and university, you’re sure to find people who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the content. There was indeed a significant increase from A-levels, and in some respects, an even greater transition from the first term to the second. Being placed in such an environment can challenge your confidence; you may observe others studying and feel like you’re falling short. A few strategies helped me navigate these feelings, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If something is unclear to you, I can nearly guarantee that others are also struggling with it. So, don’t hesitate to seek help. This might be the crucial lesson to take away from your first year. Reach out to your peers and the teaching staff!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize that students face difficulties. They empathize with our struggles and keep open lines of communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t really access the pastoral support until the year was drawing to a close, but I wish I had utilized it earlier. I mentioned taking leaps before – I took one at the beginning of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This position afforded me the chance to connect with the faculty, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous avenues to engage with the staff, and it’s undoubtedly one of the best things you can do for your personal growth! My key takeaway from this part of university is to fully utilize the support that’s available. You can never have too much assistance!
In summary, this year has taught me that feelings of nervousness, both before and during university, are often baseless and can be eased by the diverse support options provided by the staff and fellow students. I’ve learned that I am never alone and how to find enjoyment amid stress factors such as exams and deadlines.