Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, apprehension, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of commencing my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously timid and reserved self was familiar with. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment! However, what insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
One of the initial and most intimidating obstacles was forming friendships. This is often one of the most frightening elements of beginning university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be a significant worry for you. On my first day settling into my accommodation, a few days prior to classes starting, I spent the whole day in my room, too daunted to step outside and introduce myself to others. Now, I can confidently state that I’ve formed some of the best friendships here at university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with individuals in similar circumstances. So, what have I discovered? I learned that taking a risk at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you’re not prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be plenty of ice-breaker activities to assist you in connecting with others. I also found that being authentic is essential. With such a diverse range of individuals across the program and university, you’re sure to encounter those who align with you.
An additional challenge was handling the workload and the complexity of the content. There was a significant increase from A-levels, and an even more considerable jump from the first term to the second. Being in such an environment can undermine your confidence; you may observe others studying and question your own capabilities. What aided me was recalling that everyone is navigating the same journey. If you don’t grasp a concept, it’s likely that others are struggling too. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This could be the most vital skill to cultivate in your first year. Reach out for help from peers and staff!
This brings me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are remarkable. They genuinely want you to thrive and understand the challenges students encounter. They show empathy and maintain open lines of communication regarding any difficulties. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until late in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking risks previously – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with staff members, which is invaluable. There are numerous ways to familiarize yourself with the staff, and it’s one of the most beneficial actions you can take for yourself! My primary takeaway is to leverage the support available. You can never have an excess of support!
In summary, this year has illustrated to me that feelings of nervousness, both before and during university, are frequently baseless and can be mitigated with the various support systems provided by staff and fellow students. It has shown me that I’m never truly alone and taught me how to find enjoyment even in the face of pressures such as exams and deadlines.