By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I found myself feeling anxious and uncertain about 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 reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year full of personal development, challenges, and plenty of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
One of the initial and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting aspects of commencing university, and if you’re an aspiring student, it may be a significant worry. On my first day moving into my residence, just days before classes commenced, I devoted the entire day in my room, too fearful to venture out and engage with others. Now, I can proudly assert that I’ve formed some of the strongest friendships here at university and in my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, starting with casual conversations with individuals in similar situations. So, what did I discover? It’s crucial to take a risk at the beginning of the year. If you’re not prepared or at ease, don’t stress! Numerous ice-breaker events will be available to assist you in connecting with others. I also realized that being true to yourself is essential. With such a diverse group of people in the program and university, you are sure to meet those who resonate with you.
Another challenge was the academic workload and the complexity of the content. There was indeed a noticeable increase from A-levels, with an even larger leap from the first term to the second. Being in such a challenging environment can impact your confidence; you may observe others studying and feel inadequate. What aided me was the reminder that everyone is in a similar situation. If you don’t grasp something, it’s likely that others are struggling too. So, seek assistance. This might be the most important lesson to grasp in your first year. Reach out to classmates and faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the challenges that students encounter. They show understanding and keep open lines of communication regarding our dilemmas. I didn’t take advantage of the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had utilized it sooner. I talked about taking chances – I did take one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to connect with the staff, which is invaluable. There are numerous ways to interact with faculty, and it’s one of the best investments you can make for yourself! My key takeaway is to leverage the support available. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both before and during university, are often unfounded and can be mitigated by the support provided by staff and fellow students. It’s demonstrated that I’m never isolated and taught me how to have a good time despite pressures like exams and deadlines.