Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I was filled with anxiety and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was set to begin my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. The prospect of diving into the unknown was something my formerly reserved self was not familiar with. Looking back, I realize it has been a year packed with personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and where do I stand today?
One of the primary and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This can be one of the most frightening elements of starting university, and if you’re a prospective student, it may be a significant worry. On my inaugural day moving into my accommodation, just days prior to the start of the term, I remained in my room the entire day, too nervous to venture out and meet others. Now, I can proudly say I’ve forged some of the finest friendships here at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, which began with casual conversations with others in similar situations. What did I discover? It’s wise to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you’re not prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breakers and events designed to help you connect with your peers. I also learned the importance of being yourself. With such a variety of people across the course and university, you’re certain to meet kindred spirits.
Another challenge was the volume of work and the difficulty of the content. There was a distinct leap from A-levels, and an even larger jump from the first to the second term. Being in such a setting can challenge your confidence; observing others study may cause feelings of inadequacy. What aided me was remembering that everyone is experiencing similar struggles. If you don’t grasp something, it’s likely that others don’t either. Therefore, seek assistance. This might be the most essential skill to cultivate in your first year. Reach out for support from classmates and faculty!
This leads me to another important point. The faculty in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely want you to excel and understand the difficulties students encounter. They show compassion and maintain open lines of communication with us regarding any issues. I didn’t make full use of the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I talked about taking risks earlier – I embraced one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with faculty members, which is incredibly beneficial. There are many avenues to establish relationships with staff, and it’s one of the best choices you can make for yourself! My key takeaway is to seize the assistance offered. You can never have an excess of support!
In summary, this year has taught me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are often unfounded and can be mitigated with the help available from faculty and fellow students. It has demonstrated that I’m never alone and taught me how to enjoy myself despite the pressures of exams and deadlines.