By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, back in October 2022, I was filled with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead as I was set to commence my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my formerly shy and reserved self was used to. Looking back on the past year, I see a time rich with personal development, hurdles, and a lot of enjoyment! What insights have I gained this year, and where do I stand now?
One of the initial and most anxiety-inducing challenges was making acquaintances. This is frequently one of the most intimidating elements of starting university, and if you are a future student, it might be a significant worry for you. On the very first day of moving into my accommodation, a few days prior to the commencement of classes, I spent the entire day sequestered in my room, too fearful to step out and introduce myself to others. Now, I can proudly state that I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever experienced, both within this university and my course. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, which began with casual conversations with others in similar circumstances. What did I discover? I learned that taking a chance at the beginning of the year is always the best approach. If you’re not prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker chances and events to facilitate connections with others. I also discovered that being authentic is vital. With such a diverse array of individuals across the course and university, you’re sure to encounter kindred spirits.
Another hurdle was the volume of work and complexity of the content. There was a clear increase from A-levels, and an even greater jump from the first term to the second. Being in such an environment can impact your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few strategies helped me navigate this feeling, one being the reminder that everyone shares the same experience. If you struggle to grasp something, I can almost assure you that others do as well. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This may be the most crucial lesson to grasp in your first year. Reach out to your peers and the staff!
On the topic of staff, the Materials department personnel are exceptional. They genuinely wish for your success and understand the challenges students encounter. They show empathy towards students and keep open lines of communication with us regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had accessed it sooner. I mentioned taking risks earlier – I made one at the start of the year by stepping into the role of a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which is immensely beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with staff, and it’s among the best actions you can take for your well-being! My primary takeaway from this aspect of university is to leverage the support available. You can never have too much help!
In conclusion, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are often baseless and can be mitigated by the various layers of support provided by staff and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never truly alone and how to savor my time despite pressures such as exams and deadlines.