Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Approximately ten months ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead as I commenced my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously reserved nature was familiar with. Looking back on the past academic year, I recognize a path of personal development, challenges, and enjoyment. But what have I discovered, and what is my current status?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This element of beginning university can be daunting, and if you are a prospective student, it may be a considerable worry. On my initial day of moving into my accommodation, I remained in my room the whole time, too apprehensive to go out and meet others. Now, I can proudly state I’ve forged some of the best friendships here at university and in my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all started with casual conversations with others facing similar situations. So, what did I find out? I learned that taking that first step at the beginning of the year is essential. If you’re not feeling prepared or at ease, that’s okay! There will be numerous ice-breaker events to facilitate connecting with others. Also, remain authentic. With such a diverse group of people across the course and university, you’re sure to encounter like-minded individuals.
Another obstacle was the amount of work and the difficulty level of the content. There was a clear increase from A-levels, and an even larger jump from the first term to the second. Being in this kind of environment can shake your confidence; you may feel insufficient compared to others. What helped me was the reminder that everyone is experiencing the same challenges. If you don’t grasp something, it’s likely that others are in the same position. So, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This is arguably the most vital lesson for the first year. Seek guidance from your peers and staff!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want students to thrive and recognize the difficulties we endure. They show understanding and maintain open lines of communication regarding our challenges. I did not fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had accessed it earlier. I took a bold step at the beginning of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This role permitted me to connect with staff members, which is invaluable. There are numerous avenues to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the most beneficial actions you can take for yourself! My primary message is to capitalize on the support available. There’s no such thing as too much assistance!
In summary, this year has taught me that feelings of nervousness, both before and during university, are frequently unfounded and can be eased with the support provided by staff and fellow students. I’ve learned that I’m never solitary and how to embrace enjoyment despite the pressures of exams and deadlines.