Ten months ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about the future as I embarked on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unknown was not something my formerly shy self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and enjoyment. So, what have I discovered, and where do I stand today?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This can be quite overwhelming when entering university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be a significant worry. On my first day moving into my accommodation, I spent the whole day in my room, too daunted to meet others. Now, I can proudly say I’ve forged some of the best friendships at university and in my course. I’ve found a second family at Imperial, and everything began with casual conversations with others in similar situations. I learned that taking a bold step at the beginning of the year is essential. If you’re not ready or comfortable, don’t stress! There will be numerous ice-breaker events to assist you in connecting with peers. Also, just be yourself. With such a diverse group of people throughout the course and university, you’ll discover those who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was the workload and the difficulty of the content. There was a noticeable transition from A-levels and an even greater leap from the first to the second term. Being in such an environment can impact your confidence; you might feel inadequate watching others study. Remember, everyone is facing the same struggle. If something seems unclear to you, chances are others are equally confused. So, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This is vital during the first year. Seek guidance from both peers and staff!
The faculty in Materials is exceptional. They are keen on your success and understand the challenges students face. They communicate with us regarding our concerns. I didn’t utilize the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I took a chance at the beginning by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which is invaluable. There are numerous ways to engage with the faculty, and it’s one of the best choices you can make for your well-being! My key lesson is to make the most of the support available. You can never have too much!
In conclusion, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness about university are often unwarranted and can be eased with the support from staff and fellow students. It taught me that I’m never alone and how to have fun despite the stress stemming from exams and deadlines.