Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the brink of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my formerly shy and introverted self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal improvement, 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 frightening elements of entering university, and if you’re a potential student, it might be a significant worry for you. On my initial day moving into my accommodation, a few days prior to the semester commencing, I spent the whole day in my room, too afraid to go out and meet people. However, today I can assert with confidence that I have made some of the best friends here at university and in my program. I have discovered a second family at Imperial, which all began with casual conversations with others in similar situations. So, what did I discover? I learned that taking a risk at the beginning of the year is consistently advantageous. If you’re not yet ready or at ease, don’t stress! There will be plenty of introductory events to facilitate connections with others. I also realized that being authentic is essential. With such a variety of individuals across the program and university, you’re sure to encounter like-minded people.
Another obstacle was the volume of work and the difficulty of the content. There was certainly an increase in demands compared to A-levels, and in some respects, a more significant jump from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such a setting can challenge your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few strategies helped me navigate this sensation, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you don’t grasp a concept, I can nearly assure you that there are others who also don’t. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This may be the most vital skill to cultivate in the first year. Reach out for support from your peers and the faculty!
This leads me to my next observation. The staff in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize the difficulties students encounter. They sympathize with students and maintain ongoing communication throughout the year about our concerns. I didn’t fully engage with the pastoral support until late in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I previously mentioned taking risks – I took a chance at the onset of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to become acquainted with the staff, which proves invaluable. There are numerous ways to connect with faculty, and it’s one of the most beneficial actions you can take for yourself! My primary takeaway from this aspect of university is to fully utilize the support available. You can never receive too much!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are generally unfounded and can be eased with the various support resources available from staff and fellow students. It has taught me that I’m never alone and how to find enjoyment even amid pressures such as exams and deadlines.