By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about the future. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unknown was not what my previously shy and introverted self was accustomed to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyable moments! But what insights did this year provide, and what is my current standing?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting parts of beginning university, and if you are a prospective student, it might be a significant worry for you. On my initial day of moving into my accommodation, a few days before classes commenced, I spent the whole day secluded in my room, too daunted to step out and meet others. However, as I sit here today, I can say with confidence that I’ve made some of the finest friends I’ve ever had, both at this university and in my program. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with people in similar circumstances. So, what did I take away from this? I learned that taking a step forward at the beginning of the year is always advisable. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaking chances and activities to aid you in connecting with others. I also discovered that if there’s one thing you should be, it’s yourself. With such a diverse array of individuals across the course and university, you are sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another challenge revolved around the workload and the complexity of the material. There was definitely a significant shift from A-levels, and in some aspects, an even more substantial shift from the first term to the second. Being placed in such an environment can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. Several factors helped me navigate that feeling, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing the same thing. If you don’t grasp something, I can nearly assure you that others are also struggling. Therefore, seek assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson to learn in the first year. Ask for support from both your peers and the faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely want you to excel and understand that students face difficulties. They connect with students and maintain open communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until late in the year, but I wish I had started sooner. I referred to taking leaps earlier – I did take one at the beginning of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This role allowed me to become acquainted with the staff members, which is extremely beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with staff, and it is undoubtedly one of the best actions you can take for your own benefit! My primary takeaway from this aspect of university is to capitalize on the support available. You can never have too much!
In conclusion, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are often unwarranted and can be eased with the various support options available from staff and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never alone and how to enjoy my time while managing stressors like exams and deadlines.