By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Back in October 2022, ten months ago, I was filled with anxiety and uncertainty as I embarked on my journey as a first-year student in Materials Science and Engineering. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously reserved self was familiar with. As I look back on the last academic year, I recognize a path of personal development, hurdles, and enjoyment. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
One of the first and most daunting obstacles I faced was forming friendships. This can be quite daunting when beginning university, and if you’re a future student, it might weigh heavily on your mind. On my initial day of settling into accommodation, I spent the entire day in my room, feeling too daunted to step out and engage with others. Now, I can proudly state that I’ve forged some of the most meaningful friendships here at university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with casual conversations with others in the same boat. What did I take away from this? It’s wise to take a leap at the beginning of the year. If you aren’t quite prepared, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker activities to assist you in connecting with peers. Additionally, be yourself. With such a diverse group of people, you’re sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another hurdle was the academic workload and complexity of the content. There was a significant transition from A-levels, and an even larger shift from the first to the second term. Being in such a setting can impact your self-esteem; you may feel less competent compared to your peers. Keep in mind, everyone shares this experience. If you don’t grasp something, chances are that others are struggling as well. So, don’t hesitate to seek help. This is vital during the first year. Reach out to classmates and faculty!
This brings me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials is exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the challenges that students encounter. They show empathy and maintain open channels of communication regarding our concerns. I didn’t make full use of pastoral support until late in the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner. At the start, I took a leap by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position enabled me to connect with faculty, which is priceless. There are numerous opportunities to engage with staff, and it’s one of the best steps you can take for your own benefit! My primary lesson is to make the most of the assistance available. You can never have too much help!
In summary, this year has shown me that the anxious feelings prior to and during university are generally unfounded and can be eased with the support provided by both staff and students. I’ve realized that I am never alone and have learned to find joy even amidst the pressures of exams and deadlines.