Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I was feeling nervous and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously timid self was used to. Looking back now, I can see a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and plenty of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the initial and most intimidating hurdles was establishing friendships. This is frequently considered one of the most daunting parts of beginning university, and if you’re an incoming student, it might weigh heavily on your mind. On my very first day moving into my residence, a few days ahead of class commencement, I spent the whole day in my room, too daunted to venture out and socialize. Now, I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the most wonderful friendships I’ve ever had during my time at university and in my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all commenced with casual conversations with individuals in similar situations. So, what have I learned? It’s advisable to take the plunge at the beginning of the year. If you’re not prepared or at ease, don’t stress! There will be plenty of social events designed to help you meet others. Additionally, if you can be one thing, be true to yourself. With such a variety of people throughout the course and university, you’re sure to find individuals with similar mindsets.
Another challenge was managing the workload and the complexity of the content. There was certainly a noticeable increase from A-levels, and an even more significant jump from the first term to the second. Being in such a setting can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might see others studying and feel inadequate. What supported me was the reminder that everyone is navigating the same journey. If you find something difficult to grasp, it’s likely others are struggling as well. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This could be the most crucial lesson to embrace in your first year. Reach out for help from your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials is exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and understand the difficulties students encounter. They show empathy and maintain open lines of communication with us regarding our issues. I didn’t make full use of the pastoral support until the year was nearly over, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. I mentioned taking leaps – I made one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to engage with the faculty, which is tremendously valuable. There are numerous ways to connect with the staff, and it’s one of the best things you can do for your own benefit! My key takeaway is to utilize the resources available. You can never receive too much support!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of anxiety regarding university are often unfounded and can be eased with the support accessible from faculty and fellow students. It has revealed that I’m never solitary and has taught me how to have fun despite pressures such as exams and deadlines.