By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Approximately ten months ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was about to embark 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, I perceive a year replete with personal development, challenges, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
One of the initial and most intimidating obstacles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting elements of commencing university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be a substantial worry. On my first day of moving into my residence, a few days prior to the start of classes, I spent the whole day in my room, too daunted to venture out and socialize. Now, I can proudly state that I’ve forged some of the finest friendships here at this university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, beginning with casual conversations with others in similar circumstances. What did I learn? It’s advantageous to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you’re not prepared or feel uneasy, don’t fret! There will be an abundance of ice-breaking gatherings to assist you in connecting with others. Additionally, if you can embody one thing, be your authentic self. With a plethora of diverse individuals across the program and university, you’re sure to encounter like-minded people.
Another hurdle was the intensity of the workload and the difficulty of the content. There was a significant leap from A-levels, and an even larger leap from the first to the second term. Existing in such an environment can challenge your confidence; you might observe peers studying and feel insufficient. A few strategies aided me through this, one being the reminder that everybody is in the same boat. If something confuses you, it’s likely that others are perplexed too. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most vital lesson to grasp in your first year. Reach out for help from classmates and faculty!
That brings me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the difficulties students encounter. They sympathize and maintain ongoing dialogue with us regarding our challenges. I didn’t utilize the pastoral support until the year came to a close, but I wish I had done so earlier. I spoke about taking risks – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the faculty, which is incredibly valuable. There are numerous methods to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the best things you can do for yourself! My primary takeaway is to make the most of the assistance provided. You can never have an excess!
All in all, this year has enlightened me that feelings of anxiety, both prior to and during university, are frequently unfounded and can be mitigated through the support available from faculty and fellow students. It has illustrated that I am never alone and has taught me how to have fun despite pressures such as exams and deadlines.