Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Back in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Embracing the unknown was not something I was used to as my former shy and reserved self. Looking back, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current state?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most intimidating aspects of embarking on university life, and if you are reading this as a future student, it may be a significant worry for you. On my initial day moving into my housing, just days before classes started, I spent the whole day sequestered in my room, too overwhelmed to venture out and introduce myself to others. Now, I can assertively state that I have forged some of the closest friendships I’ve ever experienced at this university and within this program. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all commenced with some casual conversations with others in akin situations. So, what have I discovered? I learned that it’s always wise to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you don’t feel ready or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breakers and events designed to assist you in connecting with others. I also realized that if you can be anything, be yourself. With the wide array of individuals throughout the course and university, you’re sure to encounter people who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was managing the workload and the complexity of the content. There was undoubtedly a noticeable advancement from A-levels, and in some respects, an even larger jump from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such a setting can be challenging for your self-confidence; you might see peers studying and feel inadequate. A few strategies helped me cope with that sensation, one being the reassurance that everyone is experiencing the same situation. If there’s something you don’t grasp, I can almost guarantee that there are others who are equally confused. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This may well be the most crucial lesson to learn during your first year. Seek support from both your classmates and the staff!
This leads me to my next observation. The staff in Materials are exceptional. They are invested in your success and recognize that students encounter challenges. They relate to students and maintain open lines of communication with us throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t really utilize the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had done so earlier. As I mentioned earlier about taking leaps – I did take one at the beginning of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This role enabled me to connect with the staff members, which proved immensely beneficial. There are myriad opportunities to familiarize yourself with the staff, and it’s unquestionably one of the best choices you can make for yourself! My principal takeaway regarding this facet of university life is to capitalize on the assistance extended to you. You can never have too much!
To summarize, this year has enlightened me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are often unfounded and can be eased through the various support mechanisms available from faculty and fellow students. It has taught me that I’m never solitary, and it has illustrated how to find joy amid pressures like exams and deadlines.