Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Around ten months ago, in October of 2022, I felt anxious and unsure about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was not something my former shy and introverted self was used to. Looking back now, I realize it has been a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This can be one of the most nerve-wracking parts of starting university, and if you’re a future student, it might be a significant worry. On my initial day moving into my accommodation, a few days ahead of classes starting, I spent the entire day in my room, feeling too daunted to go out and meet others. Now, I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the most meaningful friendships here at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all commenced with casual conversations with others in similar predicaments. So, what did I take away from this experience? I realized the significance of taking that initial leap at the beginning of the year. If you’re not quite ready or comfortable, don’t stress! There will be numerous ice-breaker activities to assist you in connecting with others. I also recognized that being authentic is essential. With the diverse community throughout the course and university, you’re sure to find those who connect with you.
Another obstacle was the volume of work and the difficulty of the material. There was a conspicuous leap from A-levels, and an even larger jump from the first term to the second. Being in such an environment can impact your self-esteem; you may observe others studying and feel unworthy. What aided me was the reminder that everyone is navigating the same situation. If something doesn’t make sense to you, it’s likely that others are struggling too. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most vital skill to cultivate in your first year. Reach out to both peers and faculty!
This brings me to my subsequent point. The staff in the Materials department are exceptional. They are committed to your success and understand the obstacles students encounter. They empathize and keep open lines of communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the end of the year, and I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking leaps before – I took one by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position enabled me to engage with staff members, which is invaluable. There are numerous avenues to connect with staff, and it’s one of the best actions you can take for yourself! My primary lesson is to utilize the support available. There’s never too much help!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both before and while at university, are often misplaced and can be eased with the support provided by staff and fellow students. It has taught me that I’m never alone and how to enjoy my time, even with pressures like exams and deadlines.