By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was filled with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Plunging into the unknown was not something my previously shy and reserved nature was accustomed to. Reflecting on the past year, I recognize it as a period of personal growth, challenges, and enjoyment! But what lessons have I gleaned from this year, and what is my current standing?
One of the initial and most daunting challenges was forming friendships. This aspect of entering university can be particularly intimidating, and if you’re reading this as a potential student, it might be a concern on your mind. On my first day settling into my accommodation, a few days before classes commenced, I spent the whole day confined to my room, too daunted to venture out and greet others. Now, as I sit here, I can assertively say that I have forged some of the greatest friendships of my life here at this university and this program. I’ve created a second family at Imperial, and all it took was initiating small conversations with fellow students in similar situations. So, what did I discover? I realized that it’s beneficial to take a risk at the year’s commencement. If you’re not feeling prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous opportunities for ice-breaking and events designed to facilitate interactions. I also found that if there’s one thing to be, it’s yourself. With so many diverse individuals in the program and at university, you’re sure to connect with like-minded people.
Another challenge was the volume of work and the complexity of the material. There was certainly a leap from A-levels, and in certain respects, an even steeper transition from the first term to the second. Being cast into such an environment can be challenging for your self-confidence; you may observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few factors helped me navigate through those feelings, one being the reminder that everyone shares similar struggles. If you find something perplexing, I can nearly guarantee that there are others who are equally confused. Therefore, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This may be the most crucial lesson to learn during your first year. Seek help from your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely want you to succeed and understand that students encounter difficulties. They relate to students and keep up regular communication with us throughout the year regarding our challenges. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until the latter part of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned earlier about taking risks – I indeed took one at the beginning of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This role helped me connect with the faculty members, which is immensely beneficial. There are numerous ways to familiarize yourself with the staff, and it’s undoubtedly one of the best investments you can make for your well-being! My primary takeaway from this aspect of university is to leverage the support being made available to you. You can never have too much assistance!
In broad terms, this year has taught me that feelings of nervousness, both in anticipation of and during university, are generally unfounded and can be alleviated with the array of support options offered by staff and fellow students. It’s informed me that I’m never alone, and it has shown me how to enjoy myself in tandem with the pressures of exams and deadlines.