Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding my future. I was about to embark on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unfamiliar wasn’t something my previously introverted and reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself now?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting elements of commencing university, and if you’re a prospective student, it could be a significant worry for you. On my inaugural day moving into my accommodation, a few days prior to the start of the term, I spent the whole day hiding in my room, too intimidated to venture out and meet others. Now, I can proudly say I’ve formed some lasting friendships here at this university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, all through engaging in light conversations with individuals in similar circumstances. So, what did I discover? I learned that taking a plunge at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you’re not feeling prepared or at ease, don’t stress! There will be tons of ice-breaker events designed to facilitate connections with others. I also realized that being true to oneself is essential. With the diversity of people throughout the course and the university, you’re sure to find those like you.
Another obstacle was the workload and complexity of the material. There was a noticeable leap from A-levels, and in some respects, an even larger leap from the first term to the second. Being thrown into such a setting can undermine your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. What aided me was recalling that everyone is navigating the same challenges. If you struggle to grasp a concept, I can nearly guarantee others are as well. So, seek assistance. This might be the most vital lesson to grasp in the first year. Don’t hesitate to ask peers and staff for help!
This brings me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are wonderful. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the difficulties students encounter. They empathize with our struggles and maintain open lines of communication regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until the tail end of the year, but I wish I had started sooner. I mentioned taking risks earlier—I took one by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position helped me connect with the staff, which is tremendously valuable. There are numerous ways to engage with the faculty, and it’s one of the greatest things you can do for yourself! My primary takeaway is to make the most of the assistance available. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both before and during university, are often baseless and can be mitigated with the support from staff and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never alone and how to have fun despite pressures like exams and deadlines.