Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Around 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 introverted self was familiar with. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, hurdles, and a lot of joy! But what insights has this year provided, and what is my current position?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is undoubtedly one of the more challenging aspects of beginning university, and if you’re reading this as an incoming student, it might be a significant worry for you. On my very first day of moving into my accommodation, just days before classes commenced, I spent the whole day locked in my room, too daunted to step outside and meet others. However, today, I can proudly say I’ve made some of the most amazing friends I’ve ever known, right here at this university and in this program. I’ve found a second family at Imperial, and it all started with striking up casual conversations with individuals in similar situations. So, what have I discovered? I learned that it’s always advantageous to take a chance at the start of the year. If you don’t feel ready or at ease, don’t fret! There will be plenty of opportunities for ice-breaking activities and gatherings to facilitate connections with others. I also realized that if there’s one thing you should be, it’s yourself. With so many diverse individuals throughout the course and university, you’re sure to find those who connect with you.
Another challenge I faced was balancing the workload and the complexity of the content. There was certainly a notable increase in difficulty from A-levels, and in some aspects, an even greater leap from the first term to the second. Being placed in such a setting can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. There were a few things that helped me through that sensation, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing similar feelings. If something doesn’t make sense to you, I can nearly assure you that others are also having difficulty. So, seek assistance. This might be the singular most vital lesson to learn in your first year. Look for support from your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize the challenges students endure. They show empathy towards us and maintain consistent communication throughout the year about our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned before about taking chances – I did take one at the beginning of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This role allowed me to establish connections with the faculty, which is tremendously beneficial. There are numerous ways to get acquainted with the staff, and it’s one of the best actions you can take for your wellbeing! My principal takeaway from this part of university life is to utilize the assistance available. You can never have too much help!
In conclusion, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are often unfounded and can be eased through the various support resources provided by staff and fellow students. It has taught me that I’m never alone and has shown me how to enjoy myself even amidst challenges like exams and due dates.