Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was about to embark on my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Immersing myself in the unfamiliar was not something my formerly timid self was accustomed to. Looking back, I recognize a year full of personal development, obstacles, and much enjoyment! But what lessons did this year impart, and what is my current state?
One of the first and most intimidating challenges was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting facets of commencing university, and if you are an incoming student, it could be a significant worry for you. On the day I moved into my accommodation, a few days before classes commenced, I spent the whole day in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and introduce myself. Now, I can assert with confidence that I have formed some of the finest friendships I’ve ever had here at university and within this course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all commenced with casual conversations with others in similar situations. So, what did I discover? I realized that it’s best to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you feel unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker events to assist you in connecting with others. I also discovered that being true to yourself is essential. With a diverse array of individuals across the course and university, you’re sure to encounter like-minded people.
Another hurdle was the workload and the complexity of the material. There was definitely a noticeable increase compared to A-levels, and in certain aspects, an even larger jump from the first term to the second. Being in such an environment can be challenging for your self-esteem; you may observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few things helped me navigate this, one being the reminder that everyone shares the same experience. If something doesn’t make sense, I can nearly guarantee that others are confused as well. So, reach out for assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson to grasp in the first year. Don’t hesitate to seek help from your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials are remarkable. They genuinely want you to excel and understand the challenges that students encounter. They show compassion for students and keep open lines of communication regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully utilize the support systems until the end of the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of them sooner. I mentioned earlier about taking chances – I stepped up at the start of the year by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position enabled me to forge connections with the staff, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to connect with faculty, and it’s one of the best things you can do for your own benefit! My primary takeaway is to leverage the assistance provided. You can never have too much support!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both before and during university, are often unfounded and can be mitigated with the support available from faculty and fellow students. It has taught me that I’m never alone and how to find joy amidst pressures like exams and deadlines.