Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Back in October 2022, a mere ten months ago, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding what lay ahead. I was about to embark on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a fresh first-year student. Stepping into the unknown was not something that my previously introverted and reserved self was used to. Looking back, I recognize a year filled with personal development, hurdles, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current position?
One of the first and most challenging hurdles was forming friendships. This often stands as one of the most daunting elements of beginning university, and for prospective students, it may be a major worry. On my initial day settling into my accommodation, a few days prior to the semester starting, I spent the entire day cooped up in my room, too anxious to venture out and introduce myself to anyone. Today, I can proudly state that I’ve forged some of the most meaningful friendships I’ve ever had, right here at this university and within this program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, all beginning with casual conversations with others in similar circumstances. So, what did I learn? I discovered that taking a leap at the onset of the year is crucial. If you’re not entirely ready or comfortable, fear not! Many opportunities for ice-breaking and events will assist you in connecting with peers. I also found that if there’s one thing to prioritize, it’s being authentic. With such a diverse range of individuals within the course and university, you’re sure to encounter people who resonate with you.
Another significant challenge was the amount of work and the complexity of the content. There was undoubtedly an escalation from A-levels, and in many respects, an even greater jump between the first and second terms. Being immersed in such a challenging environment can impact your confidence; you may observe others studying and feel inferior. A few factors aided me in overcoming that sensation, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re struggling with a concept, I can nearly guarantee that there are others who are equally puzzled. Thus, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most critical lesson to grasp in your first year. Reach out to your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They are invested in your success and recognize that students face difficulties. They relate to students and maintain ongoing communication with us throughout the year regarding our challenges. I didn’t utilize the support services until the latter part of the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of them earlier. I mentioned taking leaps before – I took one at the beginning of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This role enabled me to connect with the faculty, which is incredibly worthwhile. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and it’s definitely among the best actions you can take for yourself! My key takeaway from this aspect of university life is to embrace the assistance provided. You can never have too much support!
In conclusion, this year has imparted the lesson that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are often baseless and can be mitigated by the abundant support options accessible through staff and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never truly alone, and it has illustrated how to enjoy my time despite pressures such as exams and deadlines.