Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding my future. I was about to start my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Stepping into the unknown was not something my previously quiet and reserved self was used to. Looking back on the past academic year, I see a transformative journey of personal growth, challenges, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself now?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting parts of beginning university, and if you are an incoming student, it could be a significant worry. On my initial day of moving into my accommodation, a few days prior to the start of the semester, I spent the entire day concealed in my room, daunted by the idea of stepping outside and introducing myself. Now, I can assertively say that I’ve cultivated some of the most meaningful friendships here at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with casual conversations with others in similar situations. So, what did I discover? It’s vital to take a plunge right at the beginning of the year. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker opportunities and events to facilitate connections with others. I also realized that authenticity is essential. With such a diverse group of individuals across the course and university, you’re sure to encounter like-minded people.
Another obstacle was the volume of work and the challenging content. I experienced a significant shift from A-levels, and an even greater leap from the first term to the second. Being in such an environment can test your confidence; you may observe others studying and feel inadequate. What assisted me during this time was the reminder that everyone shares this experience. If you don’t grasp something, I can almost assure you that others don’t either. So, seek assistance. This might be the most vital skill to cultivate in the first year. Ask for support from your peers and faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to excel and comprehend the challenges students encounter. They show empathy and maintain open lines of communication with us throughout the year regarding our issues. I did not fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had engaged with it earlier. I mentioned taking leaps – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with faculty members, which is invaluable. There are numerous ways to get acquainted with staff, and it’s one of the best things you can do for yourself! My primary takeaway is to leverage the help provided. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has taught me that feelings of nervousness, both before and during university, are often baseless and can be eased by the various support options available from faculty and fellow students. It has taught me that I’m never on my own and how to find enjoyment even amidst stressors like exams and deadlines.