Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, 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. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously timid and introverted self was accustomed to. Looking back now, I see a year filled with personal development, challenges, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights has this year brought me, and what is my current standing?
One of the first and most daunting hurdles was forming friendships. This is certainly one of the more frightening elements of beginning university, and if you’re viewing this as a prospective student, it may be one of your greatest worries. On my initial day moving into my accommodation, a few days prior to the start of classes, I spent the entire day in my room, too intimidated to go out and introduce myself. Today, however, I can proudly say I’ve made some of the finest friends I’ve ever had, here at this university and in this course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all kicked off with casual conversations with individuals facing similar situations. So, what did I discover? I learned that taking a leap at the onset of the year is always advantageous. If you’re not entirely prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be countless ice-breaking opportunities and events to facilitate connections. I also learned that being authentic is the optimal strategy. With such a diverse array of individuals across the course and university, you’re certain to encounter people who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was the workload and the complexity of the material. There was definitely a noticeable increase compared to A-levels, and in some respects, an even greater leap from the first term to the second. Being thrown into such a setting can be challenging for your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. Several aspects aided me in overcoming that sensation, one being the reminder that everyone is navigating similar waters. If you don’t grasp something, I can nearly guarantee that others are equally in the dark. So, don’t hesitate to seek help. This might be the most vital skill to cultivate in your first year. Reach out for support from your peers and the faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The staff in Materials are truly exceptional. They are committed to your success and recognize that students encounter difficulties. They empathize with us and maintain ongoing communication throughout the year regarding our challenges. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner. I mentioned taking risks earlier – I took one at the year’s start by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to familiarize myself with the staff members, which is invaluable. There are numerous avenues to connect with staff, and it’s certainly one of the best things you can do for yourself! My key takeaway from this facet of university is to make the most of the assistance that is available. 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 baseless and can be alleviated by the various support options accessible from staff and fellow students. It has shown me that I’m never alone and has guided me how to have fun despite stressors such as exams and deadlines.