Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Cast your mind back ten months to October 2022, when I found myself feeling anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was on the brink of commencing my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Immersing myself in the unfamiliar was not something my previously timid and withdrawn nature was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year rich with personal development, obstacles, and plenty of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained during this year, and what is my current standing?
One of the earliest and most fearsome obstacles was to establish friendships. This certainly ranks as one of the more daunting facets of initiating university life, and if this text finds its way to you as a prospective student, it might be one of your significant worries. On the inaugural day of my accommodation move-in, a few days before classes commenced, I spent the whole day cocooned in my room, too daunted to venture out and meet others. As I sit here today, I can assertively declare that I have forged some of the finest friendships I’ve ever experienced at this university and within this course. I have discovered a second family at Imperial, all beginning with light conversations with fellow individuals in comparable situations. So, what did I glean from this? I discovered that taking bold steps at the year’s outset is always advantageous. If you aren’t feeling prepared or at ease, fret not! There will be ample opportunities for ice-breakers and events designed to assist you in connecting with others. I also learned that if you can be one thing, just be yourself. With such a diverse array of people throughout the course and university, you are sure to encounter like-minded peers.
Another challenge was the intensity of the workload and the difficulty of the material. There was indeed a noticeable escalation from A-levels, and in certain respects, an even more significant jump from the first to the second term. Being thrust into such a setting isn’t always easy on your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few strategies helped me manage those feelings, one being the reassurance that everyone shares the same experience. If something isn’t clear to you, I can nearly assure you that others are perplexed too. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This may very well be the most crucial lesson to grasp in your first year. Seek help from your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and acknowledge the challenges that students encounter. They relate to students and keep communication channels open throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully engage with the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had done so earlier. I referenced taking bold steps previously – I made one at the start of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous avenues to familiarize yourself with the faculty, and it’s undoubtedly one of the most advantageous actions you can take for your own benefit! My key takeaway from this facet of university is to leverage the support available. You can never have too much assistance!
In summary, this year has imparted to me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university life, are often baseless and can be mitigated by the array of support available from faculty and fellow students. It has shown me that I am never solitary and how to find enjoyment despite the pressures of exams and submission dates.