Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Approximately ten months back, 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 first-year student. Embracing the unknown was not something my previously introverted and reserved nature was accustomed to. Now looking back, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current position?
One of the primary and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting elements of beginning university, and if you are a future student, it might be a considerable worry for you. On my first day of moving into my accommodation, several days before classes commenced, I spent the entire day confined to my room, too daunted to venture out and meet others. Currently, I can assert that I’ve established some of the most wonderful friendships here at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with some casual conversations with individuals in comparable situations. So, what did I discover? I realized that taking the initiative at the beginning of the year is essential. If you aren’t ready or feeling comfortable, don’t fret! There will be ample ice-breaking events designed to facilitate connections with others. I also found that being true to yourself is vital. With such a variety of people throughout the course and university, you are sure to encounter those with similar mindsets.
Another obstacle was the extent of the workload and the complexity of the content. There was certainly a noticeable increase from A-levels, and in some respects, an even more substantial jump from the first term to the second. Being in such an environment can be challenging for your confidence; you may observe others studying and feel inadequate. What aided me was the acknowledgment that everyone shares similar experiences. If something is unclear to you, I can almost assure you that others are puzzled as well. Hence, don’t hesitate to seek help. This could very well be the most crucial lesson to grasp in your first year. Reach out to peers and faculty for support!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely care about your success and understand the challenges students encounter. They relate to us and keep open lines of communication regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until the conclusion of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking leaps previously – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with faculty members, which is invaluable. There are numerous methods to familiarize yourself with the staff, and it’s among the best things you can do for your personal growth! My primary takeaway is to capitalize on the assistance available. You can never receive too much!
In summary, this year has demonstrated to me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are often misplaced and can be eased with the numerous support resources provided by staff and fellow students. It has shown me that I am never alone and how to have a good time regardless of challenges like exams and deadlines.