Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Plunging into the unfamiliar was not something my previously timid and reserved self was familiar with. Looking back, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and plenty of enjoyment! But what insights did this year provide, and what is my current status?
One of the earliest and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This definitely stands out as one of the more fearsome aspects of commencing university, and if you’re reading this as a future student, it might be one of your primary worries. On my first day when I moved into my accommodation, several days prior to the term beginning, I spent the whole day secluded in my room since I was too intimidated to venture out and introduce myself to others. Sitting here today, though, I can assertively say that I’ve made some of the greatest friends I’ve ever known, here at this university and in this course. I’ve created a second family here at Imperial, and all it took was engaging in casual conversations with individuals in similar situations to mine. So, what did I learn? I grasped that it’s always wise to step out of your comfort zone at the beginning of the year. If you don’t feel entirely prepared or at ease, fret not! There will be numerous ice-breaker chances and events to assist you in connecting with others. I also understood that if you can embody one thing, it should be your true self. With such a diverse array of people across the course and university, you’re sure to encounter those who resemble you.
Another obstacle was the workload and the complexity of the content. There was certainly an increase from A-levels, and in some aspects, an even larger leap from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such an environment can sometimes challenge your confidence; you may observe others studying and feel inadequate. Some factors helped me navigate that sensation, one being the reminder that everyone is navigating similar challenges. If you don’t grasp something, I can nearly assure you that others are also struggling. So, seek assistance. This may well be the most crucial lesson to absorb in the first year. Request help from your classmates and the staff!
This leads me to my next point. The staff in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to flourish and recognize that students face difficulties. They empathize with students and maintain ongoing communication with us throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking leaps at the beginning; I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This role allowed me to familiarize myself with the staff members, which is immensely valuable. There are numerous avenues to connect with staff, and it’s undoubtedly one of the most beneficial actions you can take for yourself! My main takeaway from this aspect of university is to capitalize on the assistance offered to you. You can never have excessive support!
In a broader sense, this year has enlightened me that anxious feelings, both prior to and during university, are nearly always unfounded and can be eased with the multitude of support resources accessible from staff and fellow students. It has shown me that I am never alone and has taught me how to revel in myself alongside stressors like exams and deadlines.