Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding the future. I was on the verge of commencing my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Embracing the unfamiliar was not something I was accustomed to, having been shy and reserved in the past. Now, looking back, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained this year, and what is my current perspective?
One of the first and most intimidating obstacles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting elements of starting university, and if you’re a potential student, it could be a significant worry for you. On my initial day moving into my residence, a few days prior to the term starting, I spent the whole day in my room, too afraid to go out and meet people. Now, I can proudly say I’ve made some of the best friends I could ask for at university and in my course. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, all from striking up casual conversations with others in similar circumstances. So, what did I discover? I learned that taking a risk at the beginning of the year is advantageous. If you’re not prepared or comfortable, do not fret! There will be an abundance of ice-breaker activities to assist you in connecting with others. I also realized that being authentic is essential. With such a varied crowd throughout the course and university, you are sure to find individuals who resonate with you.
Another challenge was juggling the workload and the difficulty of the material. There was a clear increase in intensity from A-levels, and an even more significant jump from the first term to the second. Being in such a competitive environment can be tough on your confidence; you may observe others studying and feel inadequate. What assisted me was the reminder that everyone shares similar struggles. If there’s something you don’t grasp, I can almost assure you that others don’t either. So, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This could be the most vital lesson to embrace in the first year. Seek support from your peers and staff!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials are remarkable. They genuinely desire for you to succeed and comprehend the challenges students encounter. They are empathetic towards us and maintain open communication regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully harness the pastoral support until the year was almost over, but I wish I had utilized it earlier. I mentioned taking risks previously – I took one by volunteering as a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with faculty, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to become acquainted with the staff, and it is one of the best actions you can pursue for your own benefit! My primary takeaway is to maximize the available support. You can never have too much assistance!
In conclusion, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are often unfounded and can be eased through the array of support available from staff and fellow students. It has illustrated to me that I’m never alone and taught me how to find joy even amidst stressors like exams and deadlines.