Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the brink of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my formerly shy and reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I realize it has been a year filled with personal development, challenges, and enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
One of the first 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 greatest concerns. On my initial day moving into accommodation, a few days prior to the term starting, I spent the whole day in my room, too scared to venture out and introduce myself to anyone. Now, I can happily assert that I’ve made some wonderful friends here at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, all beginning with casual conversations with others in similar situations. What did I learn? Taking a chance early in the year is always advantageous. If you feel unprepared or uneasy, don’t stress! There are numerous ice-breaker events and opportunities to help you engage with others. I also discovered that being authentic is crucial. With so many diverse individuals across the course and the university, you’re sure to meet like-minded people.
Another challenge I faced was the workload and the difficulty of the material. There was a clear difference from A-levels, and in some aspects, an even greater transition from the first term to the second. Being in such an environment can undermine your confidence; seeing others study might make you feel inadequate. What aided me was the realization that everyone experiences the same feelings. If you find something difficult, I can almost guarantee that others do too. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek help. This could be the most vital lesson in the first year. Reach out to peers and faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize the challenges students encounter. They empathize with us and keep in touch throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. As I mentioned before about taking leaps – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to interact with faculty members, which is immensely valuable. There are many avenues to get to know faculty, and this is one of the best things you can do for yourself! My key takeaway is to make the most of the available support. You can never have too much assistance!
In summary, this year has taught me that feelings of anxiety, both before and during university, are frequently baseless and can be eased through the various support systems provided by staff and fellow students. I’ve learned that I’m not alone and how to enjoy my time despite pressures such as exams and deadlines.