Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about the future as I embarked on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unfamiliar was something my previously reserved self was not used to. In hindsight, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, challenges, and enjoyment. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
One of the primary and most intimidating obstacles was forming friendships. This can be quite daunting when entering university, and if you are an incoming student, it may be a significant worry. On my first day at my residence, just prior to the term starting, I spent the entire day isolated in my room, too daunted to interact with new people. Now, I can proudly say I have forged some of the finest friendships here at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it began with casual conversations with others facing similar experiences. What lesson did I derive? It’s advantageous to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you feel unprepared, don’t fret! There are numerous ice-breaker activities to assist in making connections with peers. Moreover, be authentic. With such a diverse group of individuals, you will find those who resonate with you.
Another hurdle was the intensity and complexity of the workload. The transition from A-levels was quite noticeable, and the leap from the first term to the second was even more significant. Being in such an atmosphere can influence your self-esteem; you might feel insufficient compared to your peers. Keep in mind, everyone is navigating a similar path. If something isn’t clear to you, it’s likely others are in the same boat as well. Therefore, seek assistance. This is a vital lesson to learn in your first year. Reach out for help from both fellow students and faculty!
The faculty in Materials is exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and understand the challenges students face. They maintain an open line of communication regarding any problems. I didn’t utilize the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. I made a bold move by becoming a year well-being representative, which helped me establish connections with faculty, a rewarding experience. There are plenty of opportunities to engage with staff, and it’s advantageous! My key takeaway is to make the most of the support available. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has taught me that feelings of anxiety surrounding university are frequently unfounded and can be eased with the assistance available from both faculty and students. I’ve realized that I am never truly alone and have learned how to have fun even amid the pressure of exams and deadlines.