By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. As a first-year student preparing to embark on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering, this significant transition was outside the comfort zone of my formerly timid and reserved nature. Looking back, I recognize a year filled with considerable personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of fun. But what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself now?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This often stands as one of the most daunting aspects of beginning university, and for prospective students, it may be a primary worry. On my initial day of moving into accommodation, a few days prior to the term starting, I spent the entire day sequestered in my room, too daunted to go out and introduce myself. Fast forward to today, and I can proudly state that I’ve made some of the best friends I’ve ever met here at university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, all beginning with casual conversations with others in similar situations. So, what did I discover? I learned that taking a chance at the start of the year always pays off. If you feel unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! Numerous ice-breaker activities will be available to facilitate connections with others. I also realized that being authentic is vital. With such a diverse population in the program and university, you’re sure to meet like-minded individuals.
Another challenge was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the material. There was certainly an elevation from A-levels, and in certain respects, an even greater jump from the first term to the second. Being immersed in such a scenario can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. Several factors assisted me in navigating this, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing the same situation. If you’re struggling to grasp a concept, I can nearly assure you that others are too. So, do not hesitate to ask for assistance. This may be the most essential skill to cultivate during your first year. Reach out to classmates and faculty for support!
This brings me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize the challenges faced by students. They relate to us and maintain ongoing dialogue throughout the year regarding our apprehensions. I regret not fully leveraging the pastoral support until the year’s end; I wish I had sought it out sooner. I spoke about taking risks earlier – at the start of the year, I seized one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to build rapport with the faculty, which is immensely beneficial. There are various avenues to connect with staff, making it one of the best actions you can take for yourself! My primary takeaway from this element of university life is to capitalize on the support available. You can never have too much!
All in all, this year has demonstrated to me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are frequently baseless and can be mitigated through the diverse support resources provided by staff and fellow students. It has clarified that I’m never truly alone and has equipped me with the ability to enjoy my experience despite challenges such as exams and deadlines.