By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
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 unfamiliar territory was not typical for my previously timid and reserved self. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and a lot of joy! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was establishing friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting parts of beginning university, and if you’re reading this as a future student, it may be one of your primary worries. On my initial day moving into my accommodation, a few days before classes started, I spent the entire day sequestered in my room, too daunted to step out and meet new people. Nevertheless, sitting here today, I can assertively say that I’ve formed some of the most meaningful friendships I’ve ever experienced at this university and in this program. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all began with engaging in casual conversations with others in comparable situations. So, what did I discover? I found that it’s always beneficial to take a risk at the beginning of the year. If you’re not feeling prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous opportunities for ice-breaking activities and events to facilitate connections with others. I also learned that if you can embody one quality, it should be authenticity. With such a diverse array of people in the program and university, you’re sure to find individuals who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the subject matter. There was certainly a leap from A-levels, and in many respects, an even greater transition from the first term to the second. Being immersed in such an environment can impact your self-esteem; you might observe your peers studying and feel inferior. A few strategies helped me navigate that sensation, one being the assurance that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If a concept eludes your understanding, I can nearly guarantee others are grappling with the same issue. Therefore, seek assistance. This might be the single most crucial lesson to grasp in your first year. Don’t hesitate to ask for support from your classmates and faculty!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials are incredible. They genuinely desire your success and recognize that students face difficulties. They empathize with us and maintain ongoing communication about our concerns throughout the academic year. I didn’t fully embrace the pastoral support until late in the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. I mentioned earlier about taking risks – I did take one at the year’s outset by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This role enabled me to connect with faculty members, which is immensely beneficial. There are numerous ways to familiarize yourself with the staff, and it is undoubtedly one of the most advantageous actions you can take for yourself! My primary takeaway from this component of university life is to exploit the assistance being provided. You can never receive too much!
Overall, this year has illustrated to me that feelings of nervousness, both in anticipation of and during university, are nearly always unfounded and can be mitigated through the numerous support avenues offered by staff and fellow students. It’s taught me that I’m never alone, and it has demonstrated how to have fun amid the pressures of exams and deadlines.