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 brink of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unknown was not something my formerly shy and introverted self was used to. Looking back now, 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 status?
One of the initial and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This often ranks among the most intimidating elements of commencing university, and this might be a considerable worry for prospective students. On my first day of moving into my accommodations, a few days ahead of the term, I spent the whole day retreating in my room, too daunted to step out and introduce myself to others. Now, I can proudly state that I’ve forged some of the best friendships I’ve ever experienced here at university and within my course. I’ve built a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with others experiencing similar situations. So, what did I discover? I realized that making a bold move at the beginning of the year is always a great idea. If you’re feeling unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! There will be numerous opportunities for ice-breaking and events designed to assist you in connecting with others. I also discovered that authenticity is vital. With such a diverse array of individuals throughout the course and university, you are sure to encounter like-minded peers.
Another obstacle was managing the workload and the complexity of the material. There was certainly a leap from A-levels, and in some respects, an even greater transition from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such a setting can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel below par. A few strategies helped me navigate this feeling, one being the acknowledgment that everyone shares the same experience. If you’re struggling to grasp something, I can almost assure you others are too. So, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This could be the most essential lesson to learn in your first year. Reach out for support from peers and faculty!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and realize that students face difficulties. They relate to students and maintain ongoing communication throughout the year concerning our challenges. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until late in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I referenced taking risks prior – I took one at the year’s start by serving as a year well-being representative. This role enabled me to connect with the faculty, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with the staff, and it’s one of the best actions you can take for yourself! My primary lesson from this facet of university is to capitalize on the assistance available. You can never receive too much help!
Ultimately, this year has demonstrated to me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are frequently baseless and can be eased with the various support resources provided by staff and fellow students. It has shown me that I am never alone and how to find enjoyment despite pressures like exams and deadlines.