Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was about to embark on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Immersing myself in the unfamiliar was not something my once-timid self was used to. Reflecting back, I can see a year filled with personal development, hurdles, and a lot of enjoyment! But what lessons has this year imparted to me, and where do I stand now?
One of the initial and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This can be one of the most daunting parts of beginning university, and if you’re a prospective student, it may be one of your primary worries. On my first day settling into my accommodation, a few days prior to the semester starting, I spent the whole day sequestered in my room, too nervous to go out and mingle. Now, I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the best friendships during my time at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with brief conversations with others in similar situations. So, what did I take away from this? It’s beneficial to take a risk at the start of the year. If you’re feeling unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! There will be numerous opportunities for ice-breaking and events to help you connect with others. I also discovered that being true to yourself is essential. With so many diverse individuals in the course and university, you’re sure to meet those who resonate with you.
Another challenge was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the material. There was a noticeable leap from A-levels, and an even more significant leap from the first term to the second. Being in such an atmosphere can test your self-assurance; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few factors aided me during this time, one being the reminder that everyone is navigating similar challenges. If you find something perplexing, I can nearly assure you that others do too. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most vital lesson to grasp in the first year. Reach out to classmates and faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to succeed and comprehend the difficulties students encounter. They resonate with students and maintain ongoing dialogue about our concerns. I didn’t make full use of the pastoral support until the latter part of the year, yet I wish I had embraced it earlier. I talked about taking risks earlier – I took one by stepping into the role of a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which is immensely beneficial. There are several avenues to engage with staff, and it’s one of the greatest actions you can take for your well-being! My primary insight is to seize the support provided. You can never have too much support!
In conclusion, this year has demonstrated to me that feelings of nervousness, both before and during university, are frequently unfounded and can be eased with the support accessible from faculty and fellow students. It taught me that I’m never alone and how to find enjoyment in myself despite the pressures of exams and deadlines.