Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was on the brink of commencing my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my previously reserved self was used to. Looking back, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting aspects of beginning university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be one of your primary worries. On my first day of moving into my accommodation, a few days ahead of the semester commencing, I spent the whole day in my room, too anxious to step out and introduce myself to others. Now, I can proudly state that I’ve forged some of the best friendships I’ve ever experienced here at university and in this program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all commenced with small conversations with individuals in comparable situations. So, what did I discover? I realized that taking a leap at the beginning of the year is the best approach. If you’re not quite ready or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker events to assist you in connecting with others. I also learned that if there’s one thing to be, it’s yourself. With such a diverse range of people throughout the course and university, you’re sure to encounter like-minded peers.
Another challenge was the workload and the complexity of the content. There was a clear shift from A-levels, and an even larger transition from the first term to the second. Being in such a setting can put a strain on your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few things aided me in this, one being the reminder that everyone is navigating the same journey. If you struggle to grasp a concept, I can nearly assure you others are too. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson to absorb in the initial year. Seek support from your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The staff in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize that students encounter difficulties. They empathize with us and maintain ongoing communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had engaged with it earlier. I mentioned taking leaps—I ventured into one at the beginning of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to connect with the staff, which is immensely beneficial. There are numerous ways to bond with staff, and it’s one of the best choices you can make for yourself! My main takeaway is to capitalize on the assistance provided. You can never have an oversupply!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are often baseless and can be alleviated with the support accessible from faculty and fellow students. It’s taught me that I am never alone and how to find enjoyment despite challenges like exams and deadlines.