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 embarking on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Immersing myself into the unfamiliar was not something my previously timid self was familiar with. Looking back now, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, obstacles, and enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
One of the initial and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This often ranks high on the list of worries for new university students, and if you’re reading this as a potential student, it might be on your mind as well. On my first day settling into my accommodation, just days prior to the start of the term, I spent the whole day in my room, feeling too daunted to venture out and meet people. Now, I can proudly state that I’ve forged some of the most amazing friendships during my time at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial by engaging in casual conversations with others in similar situations. What did I take away from this? It’s important to embrace the opportunity at the beginning of the year. If you’re not ready, don’t fret! There will be plenty of ice-breaker activities to assist you in connecting with others. Also, just be yourself. With a plethora of diverse individuals at the university, you’re sure to encounter those who connect with you.
An additional challenge was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the content. There was a clear leap from A-levels, and an even more significant transition from the first to the second term. Being in such an environment can be daunting for your self-esteem; you may feel insufficient compared to your peers. Keep in mind, everyone is facing similar challenges. If something is unclear to you, chances are it’s unclear to others as well. So, do not hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most vital lesson during your first year. Reach out for support from fellow students and faculty!
This brings me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are remarkable. They genuinely wish for your success and comprehend the difficulties that students encounter. They show empathy and keep communication open about our concerns. I didn’t utilize the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had reached out earlier. I mentioned taking chances before – I took one by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position allowed me to engage with the faculty, which is invaluable. There are numerous ways to connect with the staff, and it’s among the best decisions you can make! My primary takeaway is to make the most of the support available. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year taught me that feelings of nervousness surrounding university are often unfounded and can be eased with the backing offered by staff and fellow students. It has illustrated that I am never truly alone and has encouraged me to find joy even amid the pressures of exams and deadlines.