Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with nerves, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the brink of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Diving into the unfamiliar was not something my previously shy and reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and plenty of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and where do I stand today?
One of the first and most intimidating obstacles was forging friendships. This is often one of the most daunting parts of beginning university, and if you’re a prospective student, it might weigh heavily on your mind. On my first day of moving into accommodation, just days prior to the start of classes, I remained in my room all day, too intimidated to venture out and meet new people. Now, I can proudly say that I’ve made some of the most wonderful friends at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, all by initiating casual conversations with others in similar situations. So, what did I discover? I learned that taking the plunge at the beginning of the year is beneficial. If you’re not yet equipped or comfortable, don’t fret! There are numerous ice-breaker activities designed to help you engage with others. I also realized that staying true to yourself is vital. With a diverse array of individuals within the course and university, you’re sure to encounter like-minded peers.
Another hurdle was the workload and the complexity of the content. There was a stark transition from A-levels, and an even greater leap from the first to the second term. Being in such an environment can shake your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. What helped me was keeping in mind that everyone is navigating the same waters. If you find something perplexing, there’s a good chance others do too. So, seek assistance. This may be the most essential skill to cultivate in your first year. Reach out to peers and staff!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are phenomenal. They genuinely want you to thrive and understand the obstacles students encounter. They show empathy and keep open lines of communication with us regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the latter part of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I spoke earlier about taking leaps – I took one by stepping up as a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to establish connections with faculty members, which is tremendously advantageous. There are many ways to familiarize yourself with the staff, and it’s one of the best steps you can take for your own benefit! My primary lesson is to make the most of the support available. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has imparted the lesson that feelings of anxiety, both prior to and during university, are often unfounded and can be mitigated with the assistance available from faculty and fellow students. I’ve learned that I’m never alone and discovered how to enjoy myself despite pressures from exams and deadlines.