Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Just ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about the future. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unknown wasn’t something my previously introverted and reserved self was familiar with. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself today?
One of the initial and most intimidating challenges was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting aspects of beginning university, and if you’re a prospective student, it might be a notable worry for you. On my first day settling into my accommodation, a few days prior to the term starting, I spent the whole day in my room, too daunted to step out and meet people. However, today, I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the finest friendships I’ve ever had, here at this university and within this program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all commenced with casual conversations with others in similar situations. So, what did I learn? I learned that making an effort at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be an abundance of ice-breaking opportunities and events to facilitate connections with others. I also discovered that being authentic is essential. With such a diverse array of individuals throughout the program and university, you are sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was the volume of work and the complexity of the content. There was certainly a shift from A-levels, and in some respects, an even larger jump from the first term to the second. Being immersed in such an environment can test your confidence; you might observe your peers studying and feel inadequate. A few strategies assisted me in overcoming this sentiment, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you don’t grasp something, I can nearly guarantee others are in the same position. So, don’t hesitate to seek help. This may be the most vital skill to cultivate in your first year. Reach out to your classmates and the faculty!
This brings me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the difficulties that students encounter. They are understanding towards students and maintain ongoing communication throughout the year about our concerns. I didn’t fully utilize the support system until the end of the year, but I wish I had embraced it earlier. Previously, I mentioned taking risks – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to connect with the staff, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the most rewarding things you can do for yourself! My primary takeaway from this aspect of university is to fully leverage the assistance available. You can never receive too much!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are often unfounded and can be mitigated with the various support resources accessible from faculty and fellow students. It has taught me that I’m never alone and how to find enjoyment amidst stressors like exams and deadlines.