Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Almost a year ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was about to embark on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Engaging with the unfamiliar was not something my traditionally reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year full of personal development, hurdles, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This aspect can often be one of the most daunting parts of starting university, and if you’re a future student, it may be a significant worry. On my initial day of moving into accommodations, a few days prior to the start of classes, I spent the entire day in my room, too fearful to venture out and meet others. Now, I can proudly state that I’ve forged some of the best friendships here at the university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, beginning with casual conversations with others in similar circumstances. What have I learned? It’s advantageous to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you’re not prepared, don’t fret! There will be an abundance of ice-breaking activities to assist you in connecting with others. Also, just be yourself. With numerous diverse individuals across the course and university, you are sure to find those who share your interests.
Another obstacle was the intensity and complexity of the coursework. There was a clear escalation from A-levels, and an even greater jump from the first to the second term. Being in such a setting can impact your self-esteem; you might feel insufficient compared to others. What aided me was recalling that everyone is facing similar challenges. If you’re confused about something, chances are others are too. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most vital lesson learned in the first year. Reach out to classmates and faculty!
This brings me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize the difficulties students encounter. They show empathy and maintain communication throughout the year regarding our issues. I didn’t utilize the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had done so earlier. I took a bold step by becoming a well-being representative for my year, which allowed me to grow closer to the staff—an invaluable experience. There are various avenues to interact with staff, and it’s one of the best decisions you can make for your personal growth! My key takeaway is to take advantage of the available support. You can never have too much assistance!
This year revealed to me that feelings of nervousness about university are frequently baseless and can be eased through the support provided by staff and fellow students. It taught me that I am never alone and how to find enjoyment even amidst the pressures of exams and deadlines.