Ten months ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead as I embarked on my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Embracing this new chapter was intimidating for someone like me, who had been shy and reserved in the past. Looking back on the previous academic year, I recognize a journey rich with personal development, obstacles, and fun. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current stance?
One of the first and most daunting hurdles was forming friendships. This is a common worry for incoming university students, and if you’re considering this path, it might be on your radar too. On the first day of moving into my housing, just before classes commenced, I spent the whole day in my room, feeling too apprehensive to go out and interact with others. Now, I can proudly declare that I’ve formed some of the most meaningful friendships here at the university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all originated from casual conversations with those in similar circumstances. The primary takeaway? It’s advantageous to make the first move at the year’s start. If you’re not quite prepared, that’s okay! There are numerous ice-breaker gatherings to assist you in connecting with others. Additionally, being authentic is vital; with such a diverse array of individuals, you’re bound to find those who resonate with you.
Another considerable challenge was coping with the workload and the intricacy of the material. There was a distinct leap from A-levels, and an even larger jump from the first to the subsequent term. This atmosphere can be taxing on your self-esteem; you might feel inferior in comparison to others. What aided me was the realization that everyone is experiencing the same challenges. If you don’t grasp something, chances are others don’t either. So, don’t hesitate to seek help. This is arguably the most crucial lesson for the first year. Reach out to peers and faculty!
Speaking of faculty, the Materials department is exceptional. They genuinely want you to excel and comprehend the difficulties students encounter. They are understanding and maintain ongoing communication with us regarding our issues. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until late in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I took a chance by becoming a well-being representative for my year, which facilitated my connection with staff, an invaluable experience. There are numerous ways to familiarize yourself with staff, and it’s one of the finest things you can do for yourself. My main takeaway is to capitalize on the support available. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has demonstrated that feelings of nervousness about university are often baseless and can be eased with the assistance provided by staff and fellow students. I’ve realized that I’m never truly alone and have learned how to find joy even amidst the pressures of exams and deadlines.