Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding what lay ahead. I was on the brink of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously timid and introverted self was used to. 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 stand now?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This aspect of embarking on university life can be nerve-wracking, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be one of your top concerns. On my first day moving into my accommodation, a few days before the semester kicked off, I spent the entire day sequestered in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and introduce myself. Fast forward to today, and I can say with confidence that I’ve made some of the greatest friends I’ve ever had, both at this university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all commenced with light conversation with others in comparable situations. So, what have I taken away from this? It’s best to take a risk at the outset of the year. If you feel unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! There will be ample opportunities for ice-breaking and events to help you engage with others. I also discovered that if you can be anything, be authentic. With such a diverse array of individuals throughout the course and campus, you’re sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the material. There was a definite increase from A-levels, and in several respects, an even steeper leap from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such a setting can undermine your confidence; you may observe others studying and feel insufficient. A few factors aided me in navigating that sentiment, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re struggling to grasp a concept, I can almost assure you that others are too. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson to learn during your first year. Reach out for support from your classmates and the faculty!
This brings me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the struggles students endure. They relate to student experiences and maintain ongoing communication about our concerns. I didn’t make full use of the pastoral support until late in the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. I talked about taking risks earlier – at the beginning of the year, I made one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to connect with the faculty, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous avenues to engage with staff, and it’s one of the best actions you can take for your personal development! My key lesson from this facet of university life is to make the most of the support available. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both before and during university, are often misplaced and can be mitigated by the support systems provided by faculty and fellow students. It has taught me that I’m never alone and how to find enjoyment even amid stressors like exams and deadlines.