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 verge of starting my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my previously timid and introverted self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, challenges, and fun! But what insights did I gain, and what is my current standing?
One of the earliest and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting parts of embarking on university life, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be a significant worry for you. On my very first day moving into my accommodation, just days before classes commenced, I spent the full day in my room, far too anxious to venture out and meet new people. Now, however, I’m proud to say that I’ve built some of the most meaningful friendships here at this university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with casual conversations with those in similar circumstances. So, what did I discover? I realized that taking a bold step at the start of the year is always advantageous. If you’re feeling unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! There are countless ice-breaking events and chances to help you engage with others. I also found that being true to yourself is essential. With such a wide array of individuals in the course and university, you’re sure to encounter like-minded people.
An additional challenge was the level of workload and the complexity of the material. There was certainly a noticeable elevation from A-levels, and in some respects, an even larger jump from the first term to the second. Being in this kind of environment can be demanding for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inferior. A few strategies assisted me in overcoming this sensation, one being the reminder that everyone is navigating similar struggles. If something is unclear to you, I can nearly guarantee that others are experiencing the same situation. Therefore, don’t hesitate to ask for help. This might be the most vital lesson to grasp in your initial year. Seek support from your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials are fantastic. They genuinely want you to thrive and understand that students face obstacles. They are sympathetic to our challenges and maintain open communication throughout the year regarding our issues. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the year was drawing to a close, but I wish I had sought it out sooner. I mentioned earlier about taking leaps – I did take one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to become familiar with the faculty, which is tremendously beneficial. There are countless ways to establish connections with staff, and it’s one of the best actions you can take for yourself! My primary lesson from this aspect of university is to make the most of the help available. You can never have too much assistance!
In conclusion, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are often unsubstantiated and can be eased with the various support resources provided by staff and fellow students. It has revealed to me that I am never alone and how to find enjoyment alongside pressures like exams and deadlines.