By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, back in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding the future. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously timid and reserved self was used to. Now, looking back, I see a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and enjoyment. But what insights have I gained this year, and what is my current status?
One of the early and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting parts of commencing university, and if you’re an incoming student, it might be a significant worry. On my first day settling into my accommodation, a few days before classes began, I spent the entire day hiding in my room, too intimidated to step out and meet others. However, today I can proudly claim that I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever had, both at this university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with individuals in similar situations. So, what did I discover? I learned that it’s ideal to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you’re not entirely ready or comfortable, don’t fret! There will be numerous networking events to assist you in connecting with others. I also realized that if you can embody one thing, be authentic. With so many varied individuals throughout the course and university, you are sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another challenge was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the content. There was certainly a noticeable increase from A-levels, and in certain respects, an even more significant transition from the first term to the second. Being placed in such a setting can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel less capable. A few strategies helped me navigate this feeling, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing similar circumstances. If you don’t grasp something, I can almost assure you that others don’t either. So, reach out for assistance. This could be the single most critical lesson to grasp in the first year. Seek support from your peers and the faculty!
This brings me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize the challenges students encounter. They relate to students and maintain open lines of communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I talked about taking chances previously – I took one at the start of the year by becoming a wellbeing representative for my year. This position enabled me to establish rapport with the faculty, which is incredibly beneficial. There are various ways to engage with the staff, and it’s one of the most advantageous things you can do for yourself! My main takeaway from this aspect of university is to capitalize on the assistance available. You can never have too much help!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are often baseless and can be mitigated with the multiple support options offered by faculty and fellow students. It has taught me that I’m never alone, and it has illustrated how to find joy amidst pressures like exams and deadlines.