By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead as I prepared to start my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Embarking on this journey into the unknown was not something my previously reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what valuable insights have I gained, and what is my current position?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This aspect of beginning university is often one of the most frightening, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be a significant worry for you. On my initial day moving into my accommodation, just a few days before classes started, I spent the whole day in my room, too apprehensive to step out and socialise. Now, I can proudly declare that I’ve made some of the greatest friends here at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, with it all commencing from light conversations with others in comparable situations. What’s the takeaway? It’s beneficial to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you feel unprepared, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaking events to assist you in connecting with others. I also realised that authenticity is crucial. With such a diverse crowd throughout the course and university, you are sure to encounter like-minded individuals.
Another obstacle was managing the workload and the complexity of the content. There was a distinct increase compared to A-levels, and an even greater shift from the first to the second term. Being in such a challenging environment can play tricks on your confidence; you may feel inadequate relative to your peers. What benefited me was the reminder that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you find something confusing, it’s likely that others do as well. So, seek assistance. This could be the most crucial lesson learned during the first year. Don’t hesitate to seek help from classmates and faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and are aware of the challenges students encounter. They show empathy and maintain open lines of communication regarding any problems. I didn’t completely leverage the pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I took the initiative to become a well-being representative for my year, which helped me connect with staff—a truly beneficial experience. There are many methods to familiarize yourself with the staff, and it’s one of the best things you can do for your own benefit! My primary takeaway is to make full use of the assistance available. You can never receive too much support!
In conclusion, this year has taught me that feelings of nervousness, both before and during university, are frequently unfounded and can be eased through the support provided by faculty and fellow students. I’ve come to understand that I’m never truly alone and learned how to have fun despite pressures such as exams and deadlines.