Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Almost a year ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with apprehension, anxiety, and uncertainty regarding my future. I was on the verge of starting my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into unfamiliar territory was not something my previously introverted and reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and plenty of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and how far have I come?
One of the primary and most intimidating hurdles was forming connections with others. This is frequently one of the most daunting parts of launching into university, and if you’re an incoming student, it might be a significant worry for you. On my first day settling into my accommodation, just days before the semester kicked off, I spent the whole day in my room, too daunted to venture out and meet others. Today, I can proudly say I’ve cultivated some of the best friendships I’ve ever experienced, both at this university and within this program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all commenced with casual conversations with individuals in comparable situations. So, what’s the lesson here? I learned that taking initiative at the beginning of the year is optimal. If you’re not prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be plenty of social events to facilitate connections with others. I also realized that authenticity is crucial. With such a diverse group of people in the program and university, you’re sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another challenge involved the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the material. There was undoubtedly a noticeable increase compared to A-levels, and in some respects, an even larger leap from the first term to the second. Being in such a setting can be taxing on your self-esteem; you may observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few strategies aided me during this time, one being the reassurance that everyone is navigating the same circumstances. If something is unclear to you, I can almost assure you that others are in the same boat. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This may be the most vital lesson to grasp in the first year. Look for help from your peers and the faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the challenges students encounter. They empathize with us and maintain ongoing communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the last part of the year, but I wish I had utilized it earlier. I previously talked about taking leaps – I embarked on one by becoming a year well-being representative. This role enabled me to connect with the staff, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the best moves you can make for yourself! My key takeaway from this facet of university is to capitalize on the support available. You can never have too much assistance!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are usually baseless and can be mitigated through the support options provided by the staff and fellow students. It has taught me that I’m never alone and how to find enjoyment amid pressures such as exams and deadlines.