Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, back in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the brink of starting my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a fresh student. Venturing into uncharted territory was not something my previously introverted self was used to. Looking back, I reflect on a year filled with personal development, challenges, and enjoyment! But what insights has this year provided, and what is my position now?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was making connections with others. This is undoubtedly one of the more daunting elements of beginning university, and if you’re reading this as a potential student, it might be one of your top worries. On my initial day of settling into my accommodation, a few days ahead of the term, I hid away in my room all day, too daunted to step out and meet others. Today, though, I can proudly say that I’ve developed some of the most meaningful friendships here at university and within my program. I have discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with simple conversations with those in comparable situations. So, what did I take away from this? I realized that taking a risk at the beginning is always advantageous. If you’re not entirely prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be countless opportunities for ice-breakers and events to assist you in connecting with others. I also learned that if you should embody any trait, let it be authenticity. With such a variety of people across the program and university, you’re sure to encounter individuals like yourself.
Another hurdle was the course load and difficulty of the material. There was indeed a noticeable increase compared to A-levels, and in some respects, a larger jump from the first term to the second. Being thrown into such a setting can undermine your confidence; you might observe your peers studying and feel insufficient. A few strategies helped me combat that sensation, one being the reassurance that everyone shares similar struggles. If you don’t grasp a concept, I can nearly guarantee that your classmates are facing the same difficulties. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This may be the most crucial lesson to learn in your first year. Reach out to your peers and faculty!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize that students encounter obstacles. They are sympathetic to students and maintain open lines of communication with us regarding our concerns throughout the year. I did not fully leverage the support systems until near the end of the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of them earlier. I previously mentioned taking leaps – I did take one at the beginning of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to connect with staff members, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and it’s undoubtedly one of the best things you can do for your own progress! My key takeaway from this aspect of university life is to seize the assistance available to you. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has taught me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are frequently unfounded and can be mitigated by the various support resources provided by staff and fellow students. It has shown me that I am never alone, and it has demonstrated how to enjoy my experiences even amid stressors such as exams and deadlines.