Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, back in October 2022, I was filled with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding what lay ahead. I was on the cusp of starting my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously shy and reserved personality was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year rich with personal development, challenges, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained this year, and what is my current standing?
One of the earliest and most intimidating obstacles I encountered was forging friendships. This is undoubtedly one of the more daunting elements of beginning university, and if you’re a prospective student, this could be among your primary apprehensions. On the first day of moving into my accommodation, a few days prior to the start of classes, I spent the whole day sequestered in my room, too intimidated to venture out and introduce myself. However, sitting here today, I can confidently 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 commenced with casual conversations with fellow students in comparable situations. So, what did I take away from this experience? I learned that taking the plunge at the start of the year is always advantageous. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous opportunities and events designed to help you engage with others. I also discovered that if you can embody one thing, it should be authenticity. With such a diverse array of individuals across the course and university, you’re bound to encounter those who resonate with you.
Another challenge was the level of workload and the difficulty of the material. There was certainly a noticeable increase in challenge compared to A-levels, and in some respects, an even larger leap from the first term to the second. Being placed in such an environment can be a hit to your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few strategies helped me cope with that sensation, one being the reassurance that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you find something perplexing, I can nearly guarantee that others are as well. So, seek assistance. This may very well be the single most crucial lesson to grasp in the first year. Reach out for help from your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials is exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and are aware that students encounter difficulties. They empathize with us and maintain ongoing communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t truly utilize the pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I talked about taking leaps – I made one at the commencement of the year by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This role enabled me to connect with the faculty members, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous avenues to build relationships with staff, and it’s one of the best actions you can take for your own benefit! My primary takeaway regarding this aspect of university is to utilize the support available to you. You can never have too much!
Overall, this year has taught me that feelings of nervousness, both before and during university, are often unfounded and can be mitigated through the various support options provided by staff and fellow students. It has shown me that I’m never alone and how to find joy amidst stressors such as exams and deadlines.