Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I was filled with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty 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 far from what my previously introverted and reserved self was used to. Looking back on the past academic year, I recognize a journey brimming with personal development, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained this year, and what is my current state?
Among the first and most intimidating challenges I encountered was forming friendships. This certainly ranks among the more nerve-wracking elements of beginning university, and if you are reading this as a prospective student, it could be one of your main worries. On my initial day of moving into my residence, a few days prior to the term starting, I spent the entire day tucked away in my room because I was too daunted to step out and introduce myself to others. Sitting here today, I can state with confidence that I’ve made some of the finest friends I’ve ever had at this university and within this course. I’ve created a second family here at Imperial, and it all started with some light conversation with individuals in similar situations. So, what have I taken away from this? I learned that taking a chance at the beginning of the year is always a good idea. If you don’t feel entirely ready or comfortable, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker events and opportunities designed to help you connect with others. I also learned that if you can embody one quality, it should be authenticity. There are countless diverse individuals throughout the course and university; you’re sure to find others who resonate with you.
Another obstacle I needed to navigate was the academic workload and the complexity of the material. There was indeed a noticeable increase from A-levels, and in some aspects, an even steeper rise from the first term to the second. Being placed in such an environment can be quite challenging for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and start to feel inadequate. A few strategies helped me manage that emotion, one being the reminder that everyone shares your experiences. If you’re grappling with a concept, I can almost assure you that several others are too. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson to grasp in your first year. Seek help from your classmates and the staff!
This leads me to my next observation. The staff in the Materials department are exceptional. They genuinely want you to prosper and understand that students face difficulties. They show empathy towards students and keep open lines of communication with us throughout the year about our concerns. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until the end of the year, yet I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. I spoke of taking leaps before – I did take one at the beginning of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This role allowed me to connect with the staff members, which is incredibly valuable. There are numerous ways to interact with the staff, and it’s certainly one of the best things you can do for yourself! My primary takeaway from this part of university is to utilize the support that is available to you. You can never have an excess of help!
Overall, this year has illustrated to me that feelings of nervousness, both in anticipation of and during university, are typically unwarranted and can be mitigated with the vast array of support services provided by staff and peers. It has taught me that I’m never on my own, and it has shown me how to enjoy my experiences amid the pressures of exams and deadlines.