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 timid and reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, hurdles, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained this year, and what is my current status?
One of the foremost and most intimidating obstacles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most frightening aspects of commencing university, and if you are a prospective student, it could be among your greatest worries. On my first day moving into my accommodation, a few days prior to the start of the term, I spent the whole day secluded in my room, too daunted to step outside and introduce myself. Now, I can proudly state that I’ve formed some of the finest friendships I have ever had here at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it initiated with casual conversations with others in similar positions. So, what have I learned? I discovered that it’s advisable to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you’re not prepared or at ease, don’t stress! There will be plenty of ice-breaker activities and events available to assist you in connecting with others. I also realized that being authentic is crucial. With such a variety of individuals in the course and university, you are sure to encounter those who resonate with you.
Another challenge was the workload and the complexity of the content. There was certainly a significant increase compared to A-levels, and in certain respects, an even greater jump from the first term to the second. Being in such an environment can challenge your self-confidence; you may witness others studying and feel inadequate. What helped me navigate through this was recalling that everyone is in the same situation. If you don’t grasp something, I can nearly assure you that others don’t as well. So, don’t hesitate to seek help. This could be the most vital skill to cultivate in your first year. Request assistance from classmates and faculty!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials are truly exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend that students face challenges. They are empathetic towards us and maintain ongoing communication throughout the year regarding our issues. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had utilized it earlier. As I mentioned the importance of taking leaps earlier – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which is invaluable. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and it is one of the best decisions you can make for yourself! My main lesson is to make the most of the resources available. You can never receive too much help!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and throughout university, are frequently unsubstantiated and can be eased by the various support options provided by staff and fellow students. I have discovered that I am never alone, and I have learned to enjoy myself in spite of pressures like exams and deadlines.