Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the brink 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, challenges, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained this year, and what is my current standing?
One of the first and most intimidating obstacles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting aspects of commencing university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be one of your top worries. On my initial day of moving into my accommodation, a few days before classes commenced, I spent the whole day in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and meet others. Today, I can proudly assert that I’ve made some of the finest friends I’ve ever encountered at this university and within this program. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with others facing similar circumstances. What did I come to realize? I learned that taking the initiative at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, fret not! There will be countless opportunities and events designed to help you connect with fellow students. I also discovered that if you can embody one trait, let it be authenticity. With such a diverse range of individuals at the university and in the program, you’re bound to discover those who resonate with you.
Another hurdle was the volume of work and the complexity of the material. There was certainly a significant transition from A-levels, and in many ways, an even greater leap from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such a setting can be challenging for your confidence; you may observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few strategies assisted me in overcoming that sentiment, one being the reminder that everyone is navigating similar challenges. If something is unclear to you, I can almost assure you that others are also struggling to grasp it. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This may be the most crucial lesson to embrace in your first year. Reach out for support from your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely wish for you to succeed and recognize that students encounter difficulties. They show compassion toward students and maintain regular communication with us throughout the year regarding our challenges. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until the latter part of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking initiatives – I took one at the onset of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This role enabled me to develop relationships with the faculty members, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with staff, and it’s undoubtedly one of the best actions you can take for your own benefit! My primary takeaway from this aspect of university life is to seize the assistance being offered to you. You can never receive too much support!
In a broader sense, this year has illuminated for me that feelings of nervousness, both leading up to and during university, are nearly always unfounded and can be mitigated through the vast array of support available from faculty and peers. It has taught me that I am never alone, and it has shown me how to find enjoyment amid stressors such as exams and deadlines.