Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I was filled with anxiety and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my formerly reserved self was used to. Reflecting upon the year, I see it as a period marked by personal development, challenges, and plenty of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the initial and most daunting obstacles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most frightening aspects of beginning university, and if you are a potential student, it could be a significant worry. On my move-in day, a few days prior to the start of term, I spent the whole day in my room, too scared to step out and interact with others. Now, I can proudly state that I’ve forged some of the best friendships here at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all started with casual conversations with others in similar circumstances. So, what did I discover? It’s best to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you’re not prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be ample opportunities for ice-breaking and events to assist in connecting with others. I also learned to embrace my authentic self. With such a diverse group of individuals across the course and the university, you’re sure to find those who share your values.
Another challenge was the heaviness of the workload and the complexity of the material. There was undoubtedly a leap from A-levels, and an even greater leap from the first to the second term. Being in such a setting can shake your confidence; seeing others study may make you feel inadequate. Several things helped me persevere during this, one of which was the reminder that everyone is facing similar struggles. If you’re confused about something, it’s likely that others are too. So, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson to grasp in the first year. Reach out for help from peers and faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to flourish and comprehend the challenges faced by students. They sympathize with us and keep open lines of communication throughout the year regarding our issues. I didn’t fully take advantage of the support services until the year’s end, but I wish I had engaged with them sooner. I previously mentioned taking chances – I did so by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to establish connections with the staff, which is incredibly beneficial. There are various ways to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the best things you can do for yourself! My substantial takeaway from this aspect of university is to make the most of the support provided. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are frequently misplaced and can be eased with the backing available from faculty and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never alone and how to find joy amid pressures such as exams and deadlines.