Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead. As a first-year student, I was about to embark on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering. Immersing myself in the unfamiliar wasn’t something my formerly timid self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and enjoyment. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting parts of commencing university, and if you’re a future student, it may be a significant worry. On my inaugural day of moving into my accommodation, just days before classes commenced, I spent the whole day in my room, too apprehensive to go out and meet anyone. Now, I can assert with confidence that I’ve made some of the most remarkable friends here at this university and within my course. I’ve built a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with others in similar circumstances. So, what did I discover? I realized that taking a risk at the start of the year is essential. If you’re not quite ready or feel uneasy, don’t fret! There will be numerous icebreaker events designed to help you engage with others. I also discovered the importance of being authentic. With such a diverse mix of individuals across the program and university, you’re sure to find those who connect with you.
Another challenge was coping with the workload and the complexity of the material. There was undoubtedly a noticeable increase from A-levels, especially from the first term to the second. Being in such an atmosphere can shake your confidence; seeing others study might make you feel inadequate. A few strategies helped me navigate through these feelings, one being the realization that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If something confuses you, it’s likely that others feel the same way. So, seek assistance. This may be the most crucial lesson to take away from the first year. Don’t hesitate to ask for help from your peers and the faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials is exceptional. They are invested in your success and recognize that students encounter difficulties. They are compassionate and keep regular communication with us throughout the year about our concerns. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had utilized it earlier. I spoke about taking risks previously – I did take a significant step by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the faculty, which is incredibly valuable. There are numerous avenues to engage with staff, and it’s one of the best actions you can take for yourself! My main takeaway from this aspect of university is to embrace the support available. You can never have too much of it!
In general, this year has shown me that feelings of anxiety, both prior to and during university, are often baseless and can be mitigated through the various support resources provided by staff and fellow students. It has taught me that I’m never alone and how to find enjoyment despite pressures like exams and deadlines.