By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Just ten months ago, in October 2022, I felt nervous and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was on the brink of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Stepping into the unfamiliar was not something my formerly reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained this year, and where do I stand now?
One of the first and most intimidating challenges was forging friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting parts of beginning university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be a significant worry for you. On my initial day of moving into my accommodation, just days before classes commenced, I spent the whole day in my room, too intimidated to venture out and meet others. However, I can now proudly assert that I’ve established some of the finest friendships here at university and within my course. I have discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with casual conversations with others in similar circumstances. So, what did I discover? It’s important to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you’re not poised or comfortable, don’t fret! There will be countless ice-breaker activities to assist you in connecting with others. I also realized that being your authentic self is essential. With the diverse array of individuals across the course and university, you’re sure to meet those who resonate with you.
Another hurdle was the workload and the complexity of the content. There was a stark increase from A-levels, and an even greater leap from the first to the second term. Being in such an environment can challenge your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel inferior. What assisted me was the reminder that everyone shares the same struggle. If something isn’t clear to you, I can almost assure you that others are feeling the same way. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek help. This might be the most vital lesson to learn in your first year. Reach out to peers and staff for support!
This brings me to my next point. The staff in Materials are phenomenal. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the challenges students encounter. They show empathy and maintain open communication regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the year’s conclusion, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned earlier about taking risks – I did take a significant one by becoming a year wellness representative. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which is priceless. There are numerous ways to engage with staff, and it’s one of the best things you can do for yourself! My key takeaway is to take full advantage of the support available. You can never have too much assistance!
Ultimately, this year has taught me that feelings of nerves, both prior to and during university, are often baseless and can be diminished with the support accessible from staff and fellow students. I’ve learned that I am never alone and how to find joy amidst stressors such as exams and deadlines.