Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what the future would bring. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Stepping into the unknown wasn’t something my previously shy and reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I reflect on a year filled with personal growth, challenges, and enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was making friends. This aspect of beginning university can be quite daunting, and if you’re an incoming student, it might be a considerable worry. On my initial day settling into my accommodations just before the term started, I spent the whole day in my room, too nervous to step out and introduce myself to anyone. However, today I can proudly say that I’ve established some of the most meaningful friendships here at the university and in my program. I’ve formed a second family at Imperial, and it all started with casual conversations with others in similar circumstances. So, what did I find out? I realized that taking the initiative at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you’re not entirely prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be plenty of ice-breaker events and opportunities to help you interact with others. I also learned the importance of being true to yourself. With so many diverse individuals throughout the course and university, you’ll surely find peers who share your interests.
Another challenge I faced was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the content. There was certainly a jump from A-levels, and in some respects, an even larger leap from the first term to the second. Being thrown into such an environment can test your confidence; you might see others studying and feel like you don’t measure up. Several factors helped me cope with this sensation, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you don’t grasp something, I can nearly guarantee that others are in the same situation. So, don’t hesitate to ask for help. This could be the most vital lesson to grasp in your first year. Seek assistance from your classmates and the faculty!
This brings me to my next point. The staff in the Materials department is outstanding. They genuinely want you to succeed and recognize the challenges students encounter. They relate to students and keep open lines of communication with us throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t make the most of the pastoral support until late in the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. I referred to taking leaps earlier – I took a leap at the start of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the best things you can do for your own benefit! My primary takeaway from this facet of university life is to make the most of the assistance available. You can never have too much!
Ultimately, this year has taught me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are often baseless and can be eased with the various support systems provided by staff and fellow students. It has revealed to me that I’m never isolated and has shown me how to enjoy myself despite stressors like exams and deadlines.