By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was embarking on my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Jumping into the unfamiliar was not something my formerly reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I can see a year rich with personal development, hurdles, and plenty of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the initial and most formidable obstacles was forging friendships. This can feel intimidating when beginning university, and if you’re a prospective student, it may be a worry for you. On the first day of moving into my accommodation, a few days prior to the start of term, I ended up spending the entire day in my room, too intimidated to venture out and meet others. Today, I can proudly state that I’ve formed some of the greatest friendships 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. So, what have I learned? It’s beneficial to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you’re not prepared or at ease, that’s okay! There are numerous ice-breaking events and opportunities to help you engage with others. I also discovered that being authentic is crucial. With such a diverse array of individuals throughout the course and university, you’re sure to find people who share your interests.
Another hurdle was the workload and the difficulty of the content. There was certainly a transition from A-levels, and an even greater shift between the first and second terms. Being in such a setting can challenge your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few factors assisted me in overcoming this, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing the same challenges. If you find something confusing, I can nearly assure you others do too. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This may be the most essential lesson of the first year. Reach out to peers and faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials is exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize the challenges students encounter. They show empathy and maintain regular communication with us about our concerns. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had done so earlier. I spoke of taking leaps – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which is invaluable. There are many avenues to engage with the faculty, and it’s one of the best things you can do for your well-being! My primary takeaway is to make the most of the available assistance. You can never have too much support!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are frequently baseless and can be eased with the support provided by staff and fellow students. It has taught me that I’m never alone and how to find enjoyment even amidst stressors like exams and deadlines.