Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed 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 first-year student. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously shy and introverted self was used to. Now, looking back, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and happiness! But what insights did this year provide me, and where do I find myself today?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting parts of beginning university, and if you’re a prospective student, it may be a significant worry for you. On my first day moving into my residence, just days before the semester started, I spent the entire day confined to my room, too fearful to venture out and meet others. However, today, I can confidently state that I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever experienced, both at this university and within this course. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all commenced with casual conversations with individuals in similar situations. So, what did I discover? I learned that taking a risk at the beginning of the year is always beneficial. If you’re not entirely prepared or comfortable, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaking opportunities and events to facilitate connections with others. I also realized that being authentic is essential. With such a diverse group of individuals throughout the course and university, you’re guaranteed to find those who align with you.
Another obstacle was the workload and complexity of the material. There was indeed a noticeable increase from A-levels, and in some respects, an even larger jump from the first term to the second. Being in such an environment can be challenging for your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel less capable. A few strategies helped me overcome this sensation, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re struggling to grasp something, I can nearly assure you that others are as well. So, seek assistance. This might be the most vital skill to cultivate in your first year. Reach out to peers and staff!
This segues into my next point. The faculty in Materials is remarkable. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the difficulties students encounter. They empathize with students and keep in touch consistently throughout the year regarding our issues. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until the conclusion of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking risks earlier – I did take one at the beginning of the year by serving as a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which is immensely valuable. There are various ways to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the best actions you can take for yourself! My primary takeaway from this aspect of university is to capitalize on the support available. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has demonstrated to me that feelings of apprehension, both prior to and during university, are often baseless and can be eased with the abundant support provided by faculty and fellow students. It has shown me that I’m never alone and how to have fun despite pressures such as exams and deadlines.