Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Diving into the unknown was not something my previously introverted and reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I can see a year laden with personal development, challenges, and a lot of enjoyment! So, what insights have I gained this year, and where do I stand at present?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This tends to be one of the most daunting parts of commencing university, and if you’re a future student, it might heavily weigh on your mind. On my inaugural day moving into my accommodation, a few days before classes started, I spent the entire day sequestered in my room, too daunted to step out and meet others. Now, I can proudly state that I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever had, right here at this university and within this course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with casual conversations with others in similar circumstances. So, what did I find out? I found out that taking a chance at the start of the year is always advantageous. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, fret not! There will be numerous ice-breaking events to assist you in connecting with others. I also realized that being authentic is essential. With such a diverse group of individuals throughout the course and university, you’re sure to encounter like-minded people.
Another obstacle was the volume of coursework and the complexity of the material. There was undoubtedly a level up from A-levels, and in certain aspects, an even larger jump from the first term to the second. Being in such a setting can impact your confidence; you might observe peers studying and feel inadequate. What aided me during this period was reminding myself that everyone is in the same situation. If you don’t comprehend something, I can almost assure you that others are struggling too. So, seek assistance. This could be the most vital skill to cultivate in your first year. Reach out for help from both peers and faculty!
This brings me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and understand the difficulties students experience. They empathize with us and maintain consistent communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully leverage the support services until late in the year, but I wish I had done so sooner. I noted earlier about taking leaps – I took one by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This role enabled me to connect with the faculty, which is invaluable. There are numerous ways to engage with staff, and it’s one of the best decisions you can make for yourself! My main takeaway from this aspect of university life is to make use of the available support. You can never have an excess of assistance!
In summary, this year has shown me that anxious feelings, both prior to and during university, are frequently unfounded and can be mitigated by the various support resources provided by faculty and fellow students. It has revealed to me that I am never alone and has taught me how to revel in my experiences despite pressures like exams and deadlines.