Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the brink of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Stepping into the unfamiliar was not something my previously timid and introverted self was used to. Looking back, I recognize a year filled with personal growth, challenges, and plenty of enjoyable moments! But what has this year revealed to me, and what is my current situation?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting parts of beginning university, and if you’re a future student, it might be one of your primary worries. On my initial day of moving into my residence, just days ahead of the term commencing, I spent the whole day sequestered in my room, too frightened to venture out and meet others. Today, however, I can proudly state that I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever experienced at this university and within this program. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all initiated with some casual conversations with others in comparable situations. So, what did I discover? I found that taking a chance at the start of the year is always advantageous. If you’re not entirely prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be countless ice-breaking chances and events to assist you in connecting with peers. I also realized that if you can embody one thing, be yourself. With such a diverse group of people throughout the course and university, you are sure to find individuals who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was the workload and the complexity of the material. There was certainly a noticeable increase from A-levels, and in some respects, an even greater leap from the first term to the second. Being immersed in such an environment can be challenging to your self-esteem; you may observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few factors aided me through that sentiment, one being the acknowledgment that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you don’t grasp something, I can nearly assure you that there are others who also don’t. So, seek assistance. This might be the most vital lesson to grasp in the first year. Reach out for help from your classmates and the staff!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to achieve success and recognize that students face difficulties. They relate to students’ experiences and maintain ongoing communication with us regarding our challenges. I didn’t really utilize the pastoral support until the year’s conclusion, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. I mentioned earlier the importance of taking chances – I took one at the year’s commencement by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This role enabled me to connect with the faculty members, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with staff, and it’s undoubtedly one of the most advantageous things you can do for yourself! My key takeaway from this aspect of university is to seize the help that is offered. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has enlightened me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are often baseless and can be eased with the various support resources available from staff and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never truly alone and how to find joy amidst pressures like exams and deadlines.