Ten months back, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead as I embarked on my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Immersing myself in the unfamiliar was not something my previously reserved self was accustomed to. Looking back on the past academic year, I can see a path of personal development, obstacles, and enjoyment. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current state?
One of the first and most formidable hurdles was forging friendships. This can be daunting when entering university, and if you are an incoming student, it might be a worry for you as well. On my initial day moving into accommodations, prior to the term starting, I spent the whole day locked in my room, too nervous to venture out and introduce myself. Now, I am proud to say I have formed some of the best friendships here at university and within my program. I have found a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with casual conversations with peers facing similar circumstances. So, what have I discovered? It’s beneficial to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you aren’t ready or feel uncomfortable, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breakers and events to assist you in connecting with others. Moreover, if there’s one thing to be, it’s yourself. With such a diverse array of individuals throughout the course and university, you are sure to encounter like-minded people.
Another obstacle was the workload and complexity of the content. There was a significant leap from A-levels, and an even larger jump from the first to the second term. Being in such an environment can influence your confidence; you might feel inadequate compared to your peers. What aided me was the reminder that everyone shares the same experience. If you don’t grasp a concept, chances are others are in the same boat. Therefore, don’t hesitate to ask for help. This might be the most vital lesson from the first year. Seek guidance from both peers and staff!
This brings me to my next point. The staff in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the challenges students encounter. They are understanding and keep communication lines open with us regarding our concerns. I didn’t utilize the pastoral support until late in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned earlier about taking leaps – I made one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to build relationships with the staff, which is invaluable. There are numerous avenues to engage with staff, and it is one of the best things you can do for yourself! My primary lesson is to seize the help that is available. You can never have too much of it!
In summary, this year has revealed to me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are frequently baseless and can be eased with the support offered by staff and students. It has taught me that I’m never truly alone and how to find joy despite pressures such as exams and deadlines.