Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Back in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the brink of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a newcomer. Stepping into the unknown was not something my formerly timid and reserved nature was accustomed to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and enjoyment. But what insights has this year offered me, and what’s my current position?
One of the earliest and most formidable hurdles was forming friendships. This is undoubtedly one of the more daunting elements of beginning university, and if you’re an incoming student, it might be a significant worry for you. On my first day settling into my accommodation, a few days prior to classes starting, I spent the whole day in my room, too intimidated to go out and meet people. Now, I can proudly state that I’ve made some of the greatest friends here at the university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, all sparked by casual conversations with others facing the same situation. The takeaway? It’s important to take that initial leap at the start of the year. If you’re not ready or feel uneasy, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker events to assist in making connections with others. Also, if there’s one thing you should be, it’s yourself. With such a diverse group of individuals throughout the course and university, you’ll certainly find others who share your interests.
An additional challenge was the academic workload and content complexity. There was a clear transition from A-levels, and an even more significant jump from the first term to the second. Being immersed in such an environment can test your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. What proved beneficial for me was reminding myself that everyone is navigating the same challenges. If you’re struggling to grasp something, I can nearly assure you that others are, too. So, don’t hesitate to seek help. This might be the most vital lesson of the first year. Reach out to classmates and faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and understand the challenges students encounter. They show empathy towards students and keep open lines of communication regarding our issues. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the latter part of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I spoke of taking leaps before – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the faculty, which is immensely valuable. There are numerous avenues to engage with staff, and it’s one of the finest choices you can make for yourself! My primary takeaway is to leverage the support available. You can never receive too much!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both before and during university, often lack grounding and can be mitigated through the support systems provided by faculty and fellow students. It has demonstrated that I’m never alone and taught me how to find enjoyment despite pressures like exams and deadlines.