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 on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I perceive a year brimming with personal development, challenges, and plenty of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the first and most formidable challenges was forming friendships. This can be one of the most intimidating components of beginning university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may weigh heavily on your mind. On my initial day of moving into my accommodation, just a few days prior to classes commencing, I spent the entire day in my room, too overwhelmed to venture out and socialize. However, today I can assertively say that I’ve forged some of the best friendships at university and in my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all commenced with casual conversations with others in similar circumstances. So, what lesson did I take away? It’s beneficial to take a leap at the onset of the year. If you’re not prepared or at ease, don’t stress! There will be numerous ice-breaker gatherings to assist you in making connections with others. Also, if there’s one thing you should be, it’s yourself. With the vast array of people in your program and university, you’re sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was balancing the workload and the difficulty of the material. There was a significant leap from A-levels, and an even larger jump from the first term to the second. Being in such an atmosphere can dampen your confidence; you might observe your peers studying and feel inferior. A few factors assisted me during this time, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you don’t grasp a concept, I can almost assure you others are perplexed as well. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most vital skill to cultivate in the first year. Reach out for help from your classmates and instructors!
This leads me to my next point. The staff in the Materials department are exceptional. They genuinely want you to excel and are aware of the challenges students encounter. They empathize with us and ensure ongoing communication throughout the year regarding our worries. I didn’t fully tap into the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had done so sooner. I mentioned earlier about taking leaps – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to connect with the staff, which is incredibly beneficial. There are countless ways to engage with the staff, and it’s one of the most significant actions you can take for yourself! My primary takeaway is to make the most of the assistance available. You can never have an excess of support!
In summary, this year has demonstrated to me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are frequently unfounded and can be eased by the support from staff and fellow students. I’ve discovered that I’m never solitary and how to have fun despite stressors such as exams and deadlines.