By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about the future. I was beginning my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I realize that the year has been full of personal development, challenges, and enjoyment! What have I discovered, and what is my current situation?
One of the initial and most intimidating obstacles was making friends. This is frequently a significant concern for new university students. On my first day settling into my accommodation, I stayed in my room all day, too scared to venture out and meet others. Now, I am proud to say I’ve formed some of the best friendships here, creating a second family at Imperial. It all began with light conversations with others in similar circumstances. I learned that taking the initiative at the beginning of the year is advantageous. If you’re not prepared, don’t be concerned! There are numerous ice-breaker activities to facilitate connections with others. Be genuine, and you’ll meet people who resonate with you.
Another challenge was the volume of work and the complexity of the content. There was a clear increase from A-levels, and an even larger jump from the first to the second term. It’s easy to feel inadequate when witnessing others study. Remember, everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re struggling with something, chances are that others are as well. Seek assistance from peers and faculty; it’s essential during the first year.
The faculty in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely want you to excel and are aware of the difficulties students encounter. They keep us informed about our concerns throughout the academic year. I didn’t utilize the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I took a bold step by becoming a year well-being representative, which helped me build relationships with the faculty. There are various ways to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the best decisions you can make for yourself. Make the most of the assistance available; you can never have too much!
This year has shown me that feelings of anxiety about university are often unwarranted and can be eased with the support provided by faculty and fellow students. I’ve learned that I’m never alone and how to find enjoyment amidst the stress of exams and deadlines.