Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the brink of starting my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Embracing the unknown was not something my previously timid and reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, hurdles, and enjoyable experiences! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting parts of commencing university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be a significant worry for you. On my initial day of moving into my accommodation, a few days prior to the term’s start, I spent the whole day in my room, too frightened to come out and meet others. Now, I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the greatest friendships here at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all originated from casual conversations with individuals in similar positions. So, what did I discover? I realized that taking a risk at the start of the year is essential. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There are numerous ice-breaking events designed to help you bond with others. I also found that being true to yourself is vital. With such a variety of people across the course and university, you’re bound to encounter like-minded peers.
Another obstacle was the workload and the difficulty of the content. There was a striking transition from A-levels, and an even more significant jump from the first to the second term. Being in such a setting can negatively impact your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel insufficient. What proved beneficial for me was recalling that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you find something perplexing, I can almost assure you others do too. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson learned in the first year. Reach out for help from classmates and faculty!
This brings me to my next point. The staff in the Materials department are exceptional. They genuinely want you to prosper and understand the difficulties students encounter. They show empathy and keep open lines of communication about our concerns. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I had made use of it earlier. I talked about taking risks earlier – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to engage with staff, which is invaluable. There are many opportunities to connect with faculty, and it’s one of the best actions you can take for yourself! My key takeaway is to seize the support available. You can never have an excess of help!
Overall, this year has revealed to me that feelings of nervousness, both before and throughout university, are frequently baseless and can be mitigated with the assistance provided by staff and fellow students. It’s shown me that I’m never alone and how to find joy even amidst pressures like exams and deadlines.