Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, apprehension, and uncertainty regarding what lay ahead. I was on the verge of commencing my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously introverted and reserved self was accustomed to. Looking back now, I recognize a year abundant with personal development, obstacles, and a lot of fun! But what insights have I gathered this year, and where do I find myself now?
One of the initial and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This indeed stands out as one of the more fearful aspects of embarking on university, and if you’re skimming this as a prospective student, it may be one of your foremost concerns. On my first day moving into my accommodation, a few days prior to the term beginning, I spent the entire day sequestered in my room, too intimidated to venture out and meet others. However, sitting here today, I can assert with confidence that I’ve made some of the most remarkable friends I’ve ever encountered, here at this university and within this course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with casual conversations with individuals in comparable situations. So, what have I learned? I discovered that taking a leap at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you’re not entirely ready or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaking opportunities and events to facilitate your connections with others. I also learned that if you can embody one thing, be yourself. With so many diverse personalities across the course and university, you are sure to connect with those who resonate with you.
Another challenge was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the content. There was indeed a significant escalation from A-levels, and in some respects, an even more considerable jump from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such an environment isn’t always beneficial for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inferior. A few factors assisted me in navigating that feeling, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing the same challenges. If there’s something you don’t grasp, I can almost assure you there are others who are equally perplexed. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson to grasp in the first year. Reach out to your peers and the faculty!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize that students encounter difficulties. They relate to us and maintain ongoing communication about our concerns throughout the year. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until the conclusion of the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. I mentioned taking leaps earlier – I did take one at the outset of the year by assuming the role of a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the faculty, which is immensely valuable. There are numerous avenues to familiarize yourself with the staff, and it’s unquestionably one of the best actions you can take for your well-being! My key takeaway from this dimension of university is to make full use of the help available. You can never have too much!
Overall, this year has imparted to me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are often unwarranted and can be alleviated by the numerous support resources accessible from faculty and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never alone and how to enjoy myself amidst pressures like exams and submission deadlines.