Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Approximately ten months ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about my future as I geared up to begin my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-time student. Immersing myself in the unknown was not something my formerly reserved self was used to. Looking back on the past academic year, I recognize a path of personal development, obstacles, and enjoyment. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is often a major worry for incoming university students. On my initial day moving into my accommodation, before the semester commenced, I spent the entire day in my room, too fearful to go out and interact with others. Now, I can proudly state that I’ve established some of the best bonds here at university and within my course. I discovered a second family at Imperial, starting with casual conversations with peers in similar circumstances. I realized that taking a chance at the year’s beginning is advantageous. If you’re not prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There are numerous ice-breaker activities designed to facilitate connections with others. Being authentic is vital, as the variety of individuals means you’ll encounter others who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was the level of workload and the difficulty of the content. There was a significant transition from A-levels, and an even larger leap from the first to the second term. This environment can test your self-esteem; you may feel inferior in comparison to others. Keep in mind, everyone is in the same boat. If something confounds you, others likely share your confusion. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This is arguably the most crucial lesson learned in the first year. Reach out for help from classmates and faculty!
The faculty in Materials are fantastic. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize the challenges students encounter. They show understanding and keep ongoing communication about our concerns. I didn’t utilize the pastoral support until the latter part of the year, but I wish I had accessed it earlier. I took a bold step by becoming a well-being representative for my year, which allowed me to connect with faculty, a rewarding experience. There are numerous ways to familiarize yourself with staff, and it’s among the best decisions you can make for your own growth. My primary message is to utilize the resources available. You can never receive too much support!
In conclusion, this year has enlightened me that anxious feelings regarding university experiences are often baseless and can be mitigated through the support offered by staff and fellow students. I’ve discovered that I’m never alone and learned how to have fun despite pressures such as exams and deadlines.