Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, 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. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously introverted self was familiar with. Looking back now, I can see a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This is frequently one of the most harrowing elements of commencing university, and if you’re a future student, it could be your prime worry. On my initial day moving into my residence, a few days prior to the term’s start, I spent the whole day secluded in my room, too daunted to venture out and introduce myself. Today, however, I can proudly assert that I have formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever known, here at this university and in this program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with casual conversations with individuals in similar circumstances. So, what did I discover? I realized that taking a chance at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you’re not quite prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaking chances and activities to assist you in connecting with others. I also discovered that being authentic is essential. With an array of diverse individuals throughout the program and campus, you’re sure to find people who share your mindset.
Another obstacle was the volume of work and complexity of the material. There was undoubtedly an increase from A-levels, and in certain aspects, an even more significant transition from the first term to the second. Being immersed in such an environment can be challenging to your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. Several factors aided me in overcoming this sensation, one being the reassurance that everyone is experiencing the same struggles. If you don’t comprehend something, I can almost assure you that others are also in the dark. So, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This could be the most crucial skill to cultivate during your first year. Reach out to your peers and faculty for support!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely want you to excel and acknowledge the challenges that students encounter. They relate to our experiences and maintain ongoing communication throughout the year about our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral assistance until the year’s end, but I wish I had done so earlier. I alluded to taking risks earlier – I took one at the start of the year by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This role enabled me to establish connections with the faculty, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous avenues to engage with staff, and it’s one of the best things you can do for yourself! My primary lesson from this aspect of university is to make the most of the support available. You can never have an excess of help!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are frequently baseless and can be eased by the various support resources provided by staff and fellow students. I’ve learned that I’m never truly alone and how to find enjoyment despite pressures such as exams and deadlines.