Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was filled with anxiety and uncertainty about the future. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my formerly timid self was used to. Looking back now, I perceive a year brimming with personal development, challenges, and a lot of enjoyment! But what lessons has this past year imparted, and where do I stand now?
One of the primary and most intimidating obstacles was forming friendships. This can be one of the most daunting parts of beginning university, and if you’re an incoming student, it might be a significant worry. On my first day settling into my accommodation, a few days before classes commenced, I spent the whole day in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and socialize. Now, I can proudly state that I’ve formed some of the closest friendships here at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with casual conversations with others in comparable situations. What did I learn? It’s beneficial to take a risk at the beginning of the year. If you don’t feel ready or at ease, don’t fret! There will be countless ice-breaker activities to assist you in connecting with others. Additionally, if you can be anything, be genuine. With such a diverse crowd across the course and university, you’re sure to encounter those who resonate with you.
An additional challenge was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of content. There was undoubtedly a significant leap from A-levels, and an even larger jump from the first term to the second. Being in such an environment can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might feel inferior in comparison to your peers. What supported me was the reminder that everyone is navigating the same challenges. If you don’t grasp a concept, there are probably others who are struggling too. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This may be the most crucial lesson from the first year. Reach out for help from classmates and faculty!
This brings me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the challenges that students encounter. They are empathetic and maintain open lines of communication regarding our concerns. I didn’t utilize the pastoral support until the academic year’s conclusion, but I wish I had done so earlier. I previously mentioned taking leaps – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the faculty, which is immensely valuable. There are numerous ways to engage with staff, and it’s one of the finest things you can do for yourself! My primary takeaway is to make the most of the provided support. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and throughout university, are frequently baseless and can be mitigated with the assistance available from faculty and fellow students. It has reinforced my understanding that I am never alone and illustrated how to find enjoyment even amidst stressors like examinations and deadlines.