Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about the journey ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my previously reserved self was used to. Now reflecting on the past year, I recognize it has been filled with personal development, obstacles, and plenty of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting elements of starting university, and if you’re considering enrolling, it might be a significant worry for you. On my inaugural day moving into my accommodations, just days before classes kicked off, I spent the whole day in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and introduce myself. Today, I can confidently state that I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever had, here at this university within this program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, beginning with casual conversations with others in similar circumstances. So, what did I uncover? It’s crucial to take that initial leap at the start of the year. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaking chances and events to assist you in connecting with others. I’ve also found that being authentic is essential. With such a wide variety of individuals across the program and university, you’ll inevitably find those who resonate with your vibe.
Another challenge was the volume of workload and the complexity of the material. There was certainly a noticeable increase from A-levels, and in some respects, an even greater jump from the first term to the second. Being in such a setting can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might observe your peers studying and feel inadequate in comparison. A few strategies helped me navigate this, one being the reminder that everyone shares similar experiences. If you struggle to grasp a concept, I can almost guarantee that others find themselves in the same situation. So, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This might be the most vital lesson to absorb in your first year. Seek help from your classmates and your instructors!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials is exceptional. They genuinely desire for you to thrive and understand the challenges students encounter. They are empathetic and maintain regular communication with us all year regarding our worries. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until the year’s conclusion, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking leaps previously – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to build relationships with the staff, which is immensely beneficial. There are numerous avenues to connect with faculty, and doing so is one of the best gifts you can give yourself! My primary takeaway from this aspect of university life is to capitalize on the available support. You can never have too much assistance!
In summary, this year has instilled in me that feelings of nervousness, both pre-university and during, are often misplaced and can be mitigated through the various support resources provided by staff and fellow students. It has shown me that I am never truly alone and taught me how to find enjoyment amidst stressors such as exams and deadlines.