Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding the future. I was on the verge of commencing my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Embracing the unknown wasn’t something my previously timid and introverted self was familiar with. Reflecting back, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and ample enjoyment! But what insights have I gained this year, and what is my current status?
One of the initial and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting facets of starting university, and if you’re an incoming student, it might be one of your primary concerns. On my inaugural day moving into my accommodation, a few days ahead of the term’s commencement, I spent the whole day sequestered in my room, too daunted to step out and introduce myself to others. Sitting here now, I can assertively state that I’ve made some of the finest friends I’ve ever had, at this university and within this program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with casual conversations with individuals in similar predicaments. So, what have I discovered? I’ve realized that taking a plunge at the onset of the year is always beneficial. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, fret not! There will be numerous ice-breaker activities to assist you in connecting with others. I also learned that if there’s one thing you should be, it’s yourself. With so many diverse individuals throughout the program and university, you’re sure to find those who resonate with you.
An additional challenge involved the workload and the complexity of the content. There was undoubtedly a leap from A-levels, and in certain aspects, a larger shift from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such a setting can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel insufficient. A few strategies aided me in navigating this, one being the awareness that everyone is in the same situation. If you’re struggling to grasp something, I can nearly assure you that others are as well. Therefore, seek assistance. This may be the single most crucial lesson to learn in the first year. Reach out for help from your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my next observation. The staff in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely wish for you to thrive and recognize that students encounter difficulties. They empathize with students and maintain ongoing communication with us throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t leverage the pastoral support until the conclusion of the year, but I wish I had done so sooner. I mentioned taking leaps earlier – I did take one at the beginning of the year by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This role enabled me to connect with the staff members, which is incredibly invaluable. There are numerous avenues to engage with staff, and it’s one of the most advantageous actions you can take for yourself! My key takeaway from this aspect of university is to capitalize on the assistance available. You can never have too much!
All in all, this year has enlightened me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are often baseless and can be mitigated with the supportive resources available from staff and fellow students. It’s taught me that I’m never alone and how to find joy amidst stressors such as exams and deadlines.