Composed by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I felt apprehensive and uncertain about what lay ahead as I embarked on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Embracing the unknown was not something my previously reserved self was familiar with. Looking back now, I recognize a year rich in personal development, obstacles, and fun. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the first and most intimidating obstacles was forming friendships. This is often one of the most daunting parts of starting university, and if you’re a potential student, it might be a significant worry. On my initial day of moving into my accommodation, I remained in my room the entire day, feeling too daunted to step out and introduce myself. Now, I can proudly say I have made some of the finest friends here at university and in my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with others in similar circumstances. What did I discover? It’s advantageous to take that initial plunge at the beginning of the year. If you’re not prepared or at ease, don’t fret! Plenty of ice-breaking events are there to facilitate connections with others. Additionally, just be yourself. With so many diverse individuals in the course and university, you are sure to encounter like-minded people.
Another challenge I faced was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the content. There was a significant increase from A-levels, and an even more substantial jump from the first to the second term. Being placed in such an environment can be challenging for your self-esteem; you may feel inadequate in comparison to others. Keep in mind, everyone is experiencing the same challenges. If you’re struggling to grasp something, others probably are too. So, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This is vital to grasp in your first year. Approach both peers and staff for support!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials is outstanding. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize the difficulties students encounter. They show compassion and maintain open lines of communication throughout the year regarding our issues. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. I decided to become a year well-being representative at the start of the year. This position allowed me to connect with staff, which is priceless. There are numerous methods to engage with staff, and it’s among the best things you can do for your personal growth! My primary lesson is to take full advantage of the support available. You can never have too much assistance!
In summary, this year has enlightened me that feelings of anxiety about university are often misplaced and can be eased with the support from both staff and peers. It has demonstrated that I am never truly alone and taught me how to find enjoyment even amidst pressures like exams and deadlines.