Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overcome with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding the future. I was on the verge of commencing my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously timid and reserved self was familiar with. Looking back on the past academic year, I recognize a time of personal development, challenges, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current state?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This often represents one of the most daunting aspects of commencing university, and for prospective students, it may be a significant worry. On the initial day of moving into my accommodation, several days before classes commenced, I spent the whole day in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and meet new people. Now, I can proudly state that I have formed some of the greatest friendships here at university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, initiated by simple conversations with others in comparable situations. What did I learn? It’s advantageous to take a risk at the beginning of the year. If you’re not feeling prepared, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker activities to assist you in connecting with others. Additionally, if you can embody one quality, be authentic. With such a diverse array of individuals across the program and university, you are likely to encounter like-minded peers.
Another obstacle was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the material. There was a marked increase from A-levels, and an even steeper jump from the first to the second term. Being in such a setting can be challenging for your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. Remember, everyone shares the same experience. If something is unclear to you, it’s probable that others are perplexed as well. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most vital skill to cultivate in your first year. Reach out for support from both peers and staff!
This brings me to my subsequent point. The staff in the Materials department are remarkable. They genuinely care about your success and comprehend the difficulties students encounter. They show empathy and maintain regular communication with us regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the conclusion of the year, but I wish I had earlier. I mentioned earlier about taking risks – I embraced one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with staff, which is invaluable. There are many opportunities to familiarize yourself with staff, and it’s one of the best choices you can make for yourself! My key takeaway is to capitalize on the help available. You can never have too much support!
In summary, this year has demonstrated to me that apprehensive feelings about university are often unfounded and can be mitigated by the support accessible from staff and fellow students. I’ve come to realize that I’m never alone, and I’ve learned how to have fun despite the pressures of exams and deadlines.