Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months earlier, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about the future. I was about to embark on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Entering the unknown was not something my previously timid and reserved self was familiar with. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting parts of starting university, and if you’re an aspiring student, it may be a significant worry for you. On my first day of moving into my residence, a few days prior to the start of the term, I spent the whole day confined in my room, too nervous to venture out and introduce myself. However, today I can assert that I’ve formed some of the most wonderful friendships I’ve ever experienced at this university and in this program. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all commenced with casual conversations with individuals in similar circumstances. So, what did I discover? I discovered that taking a risk at the beginning of the year is always beneficial. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t stress! There will be an abundance of ice-breaker opportunities and events designed to assist you in connecting with others. I also learned that being authentic is essential. With so many diverse individuals across the program and university, you’re sure to meet those who resonate with you.
Another challenge I faced was the workload and the difficulty of the material. There was undeniably a transition from A-levels, and in certain respects, an even greater leap from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such an atmosphere can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few factors helped me navigate that sensation, one being the reminder that everyone is in a similar situation. If you find something challenging, I can almost assure you that others do as well. So, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This might be the single most crucial lesson to learn in your first year. Seek help from both your peers and the faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and are aware of the challenges students encounter. They relate to students and maintain consistent communication throughout the year concerning our concerns. I didn’t really utilize the pastoral support until the conclusion of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned earlier about taking risks – I took one at the beginning of the year by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This role allowed me to connect with the faculty members, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to familiarize yourself with faculty, and it’s undoubtedly one of the smartest moves you can make for your own benefit! My primary takeaway from this aspect of university life is to leverage the assistance provided. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has taught me that feelings of nervousness, both before and during university, are frequently baseless and can be eased by the various support systems available from staff and fellow students. It has shown me that I’m never alone and how to find joy even amidst pressures like exams and deadlines.