Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I felt nervous and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was on the brink of starting my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Immersing myself in the unfamiliar was not something my former shy self was accustomed to. Looking back, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, challenges, and a good deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the early and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This is frequently one of the most anxiety-inducing elements of commencing university, and if you’re an incoming student, it might be your primary worry. On my initial day of moving into my accommodation, a few days prior to the start of classes, I remained confined to my room all day, too apprehensive to venture out and meet others. Now, I can assert with confidence that I’ve formed some of the most wonderful friendships here at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with casual conversations with others experiencing similar situations. So, what have I concluded? It’s advantageous to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you don’t feel prepared, don’t be concerned! There are numerous ice-breaking events to facilitate connections with others. I also learned that embracing your true self is essential. With the vast array of diverse individuals at the university, you’re sure to find those who connect with you.
Another obstacle was the volume of work and the complexity of the content. There was a significant leap from A-levels, and an even greater jump from the first term to the second. Being in such a setting can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might feel inferior compared to your peers. What aided me was remembering that everyone shares the same experience. If you’re struggling to grasp a concept, it’s likely others are too. So, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This may be the most critical takeaway from the first year. Reach out for support from classmates and faculty!
This leads me to my next emphasis. The staff within Materials are exceptional. They are invested in your success and fully comprehend the challenges students encounter. They show understanding and keep open lines of communication regarding any difficulties. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had utilized it earlier. I spoke about taking risks previously – I did take one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which is invaluable. There are numerous paths to engage with the staff, and it’s one of the best actions you can take for your own benefit! My primary lesson is to capitalize on the assistance available. You can never have too much help!
In summary, this year has demonstrated to me that pre-university anxieties are frequently baseless and can be alleviated through the support that staff and fellow students provide. It has illustrated that I’m never alone and has taught me how to find joy in my experiences, despite the pressures of exams and deadlines.