Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I found myself anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was commencing my studies in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not characteristic of my formerly reserved self. Looking back now, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, challenges, and enjoyment. But what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself today?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting elements of beginning university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be a significant worry. On my initial day of moving into my accommodation, just a few days prior to the start of the term, I spent the entire day confined in my room, feeling too daunted to venture out and meet others. Nowadays, I can assert with confidence that I’ve forged some of the best friendships here at university and through my course. I discovered a second family at Imperial, commencing with casual conversations with others facing the same situation. So, what did I discover? Taking a leap at the beginning of the year is beneficial. If you’re not ready or feeling at ease, don’t stress! There will be numerous ice-breaker activities to facilitate connections with others. I also learned that authenticity is essential. With such a variety of individuals at the university, you are sure to find those who relate to you.
Another challenge was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the material. There was certainly a noticeable increase from A-levels, and an even greater jump from the first term to the second. Being in such an environment can challenge your self-esteem; you may observe others studying and feel inadequate. What aided me was the realization that everyone shares similar struggles. If you find something perplexing, it’s likely that others do too. Hence, seek help. This might be the most vital skill to cultivate in your first year. Reach out to peers and faculty!
This brings me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are remarkable. They genuinely want you to thrive and are aware of the challenges students encounter. They show understanding and keep open lines of communication with us regarding our issues. I didn’t fully tap into the pastoral support until late in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking leaps before – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which is tremendously beneficial. There are myriad ways to engage with faculty, and this is one of the best choices you can make for yourself! My primary takeaway is to leverage the support available to you. One can never have too much!
In conclusion, this year has illustrated to me that anxious feelings regarding university are often misplaced and can be mitigated with the assistance from staff and fellow students. It’s revealed that I’m never alone and has taught me how to find joy despite the pressures of exams and deadlines.