Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious and unsure about what lay ahead as I geared up to commence my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a fresh first-year student. Stepping into the unknown was not something my previously shy and introverted nature was familiar with. Looking back on the past academic year, I recognize a time filled with personal development, hardships, and enjoyment. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current position?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently a major concern for newcomers at university, and if you are perusing this as a potential student, it might rank as one of your largest anxieties. On my inaugural day moving into my dormitory, just a few days before classes commenced, I spent an entire day confined to my room, too daunted to step out and introduce myself to others. Today, I can assertively state that I’ve forged some of the best friendships I’ve ever known at this university and in this program. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all initiated with casual conversations with peers in similar circumstances. So, what did I gain from this? I learned that taking a bold step at the beginning of the year is always a plus. If you’re not feeling entirely ready or at ease, don’t fret! There will be ample opportunities for ice-breaking and events designed to help you connect with others. I also discovered that authenticity is crucial. With a wide array of diverse individuals throughout the course and university, you’re sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another challenge was balancing the workload and grappling with the complexity of the material. There was undoubtedly a noticeable increase from A-levels, and in some respects, an even larger jump from the first term to the second. Being thrown into such an atmosphere can be challenging for your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few strategies aided me in overcoming this sensation, one being the reminder that everyone shares the same experience. If something is unclear to you, I can nearly guarantee that there are others who share your confusion. Therefore, seek assistance. This could be the most essential lesson to grasp in your first year. Look for guidance from your peers and faculty!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The faculty in the Materials department are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the challenges students encounter. They are sympathetic towards us and maintain open lines of communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until late in the year, but I wish I had tapped into it sooner. I mentioned taking bold steps earlier – I indeed took one at the year’s start by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position enabled me to connect with faculty members, which is highly valuable. There are many ways to engage with staff, and it truly stands out as one of the best actions you can take for yourself! My primary takeaway from this facet of university life is to fully utilize the support available. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has enlightened me that the apprehensive feelings leading up to and throughout university are generally baseless and can be mitigated with the various support avenues provided by staff and fellow students. It has revealed to me that I’m never alone and has taught me how to relish my experience alongside pressures like exams and deadlines.