Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously timid self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current position?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was establishing friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting elements of beginning university, and if you are a prospective student, it may be a significant worry. On the day I moved into my residence, a few days before classes began, I spent the whole day in my room, far too nervous to venture out and meet others. Now, I can proudly say that I’ve formed some of the finest friendships here at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with others in similar circumstances. What did I discover? It’s advantageous to take a risk at the start of the academic year. If you don’t feel prepared, don’t fret! There are numerous social events designed to help you engage with others. Also, be genuine. With so many diverse individuals at the university, you will surely find those who resonate with you.
Another challenge was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the material. There was a clear leap from A-levels, and an even larger leap from the first to the second term. Being in such an atmosphere can test your self-esteem; you may feel insufficient in comparison to your peers. What aided me was recalling that everyone is navigating the same circumstances. If something is unclear to you, chances are others are confused as well. So, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson in the first year. Seek support from classmates and instructors!
This brings me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and are aware of the struggles students face. They show understanding and keep communication open throughout the academic year. I only utilized the pastoral support towards the end of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I talked about taking risks – I made one by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position allowed me to connect with the faculty, which is incredibly valuable. There are numerous ways to engage with the faculty, and it’s among the best experiences you can pursue! My primary takeaway is to make the most of the assistance provided. You can never have enough!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of anxiety regarding university are often misplaced and can be eased with the available support from both faculty and peers. I’ve learned that I’m never truly alone and how to find joy amid the pressures of exams and deadlines.