Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about my future as I prepared to embark on my Materials Science and Engineering degree as a first-year student. Embracing the unknown was not something my formerly timid self was accustomed to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and enjoyment. But what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself today?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This is frequently a significant worry for new university attendees. On my initial day in my accommodation, right before the semester started, I spent the whole day in my room, too afraid to go out and introduce myself. Now, I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the closest friendships here at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with light conversation with others in similar situations. The lesson? It’s beneficial to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you’re hesitant, don’t fret—there will be numerous ice-breaker events to facilitate connections with others. Moreover, be true to yourself; among the many diverse individuals, you’re sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was the workload and complexity of the content. There was a clear shift from A-levels, and an even greater transition from the first to the second term. This environment can test your self-confidence; you might feel less capable compared to your peers. Keep in mind, everyone shares this experience. If something is unclear to you, others likely share that confusion. So, don’t hesitate to seek help. This is vital in your first year. Reach out to peers and faculty!
The faculty in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely want students to thrive and recognize the challenges we encounter. They maintain ongoing communication regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until late in the year, but I wish I had discovered it earlier. I took a step forward by becoming a year well-being representative, which allowed me to engage with faculty—a valuable experience. There are many avenues to connect with staff, and it’s one of the best things you can do for yourself. My key takeaway is to utilize the support available. You can never have too much!
This year has revealed to me that feelings of anxiety about university are often unfounded and can be mitigated with the support from staff and fellow students. It has demonstrated that I’m never truly alone and how to find enjoyment despite pressures such as exams and deadlines.