Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I felt nervous and uncertain about the future. I was on the brink of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a fresh first-year student. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my previously reserved self was used to. Reflecting on this past year, I see it filled with personal development, obstacles, and plenty of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
One of the initial and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting parts of embarking on university life, and for those considering this path, it may be a significant worry. On the day I moved into my residence, a few days ahead of the semester’s start, I spent the entirety of the day in my room, too daunted to venture out and meet new people. Today, I can assert that I’ve formed some of the greatest friendships here at university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with others in comparable situations. So, what did I discover? I learned that taking a chance at the beginning of the year is beneficial. If you feel unprepared or uneasy, that’s completely fine! There will be numerous ice-breaking chances and activities to help facilitate connections with others. I also realized that being genuine is crucial. With a multitude of diverse individuals throughout the course and the university, you’re sure to encounter others like yourself.
Another obstacle was the academic demands and the difficulty of the material. There was certainly a leap from A-levels, and an even greater leap from the first term to the second. Navigating this kind of environment can challenge your self-esteem; seeing others study might make you feel inadequate. What helped me was the reminder that everyone is experiencing the same situation. If you find something perplexing, others likely find it perplexing too. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most vital lesson during the first year. Reach out to classmates and faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials is outstanding. They are invested in your success and are aware of the difficulties students encounter. They show empathy and keep the lines of communication open about our challenges. I didn’t really utilize the support services until the conclusion of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I spoke about taking risks before – I took one by becoming a well-being representative for the year. This position helped me connect with the staff, which is incredibly beneficial. There are myriad ways to liaise with faculty, and it’s among the best decisions you can make for yourself! My primary lesson is to take full advantage of the support that’s available. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has shown me that anxious feelings, both prior to and during university, are frequently unfounded and can be mitigated through the support provided by staff and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never alone and how to find joy even amidst stressors like exams and deadlines.