Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Around ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding the future. I was about to embark on my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Stepping into the unfamiliar was not something my formerly timid and reserved self was used to. Looking back, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights did this year offer, and what is my current situation?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is often regarded as one of the most daunting parts of beginning university, and if you are a potential student reading this, it may be among your primary worries. On my first day moving into my accommodation, just days prior to classes starting, I spent the whole day tucked away in my room, too daunted to venture out and interact with others. Nevertheless, today, I can proudly say that I’ve established some of the strongest friendships here at this university and within this course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with casual conversations with others in similar situations. So, what did I discover? I came to understand that taking a bold step at the start of the year is always advantageous. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be ample opportunities and events designed to help you connect with peers. I also learned that if you can embody anything, embody your true self. With such a wide array of people throughout the course and university, you’re sure to meet those who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was managing the workload and the complexity of the material. There was undoubtedly a rise in expectations from A-levels, and in many respects, an even larger jump from the first term to the second. Being placed in such a setting can be tough on your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few strategies helped me through that sensation, one being the reminder that everyone shares the same experience. If you don’t grasp something, I can nearly assure you that there are others who also don’t. Therefore, seek assistance. This might be the most crucial skill to cultivate in your first year. Reach out for help from your colleagues and the staff!
This leads me to my next observation. The staff in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize that students encounter challenges. They empathize with us and keep constant communication throughout the year about our issues. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had engaged with it sooner. I mentioned taking leaps earlier – I made one at the beginning of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This role provided me the opportunity to connect with the staff, which is immensely beneficial. There are numerous avenues to engage with staff, and it’s certainly one of the best things you can do for yourself! My main lesson from this aspect of university is to make the most of the aid provided. You can never have too much assistance!
In conclusion, this year has shown me that anxious feelings, both prior to and during university life, are often baseless and can be eased through the various support options available from staff and fellow students. It has taught me that I’m never alone and how to have fun despite pressures like exams and deadlines.