By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Back in October 2022, as I commenced my journey as a first-year student in Materials Science and Engineering, I felt a wave of anxiety and uncertainty about what was to come. Entering into the unknown was not something my previously reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I can see that this year has been rich with personal development, obstacles, and enjoyable moments. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
One of the earliest and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This aspect is frequently one of the most overwhelming parts of beginning university, and if you are an incoming student, it might be a significant worry for you. On my first day settling into my accommodation, right before the term kicked off, I spent the whole day tucked away in my room, too nervous to step out and socialize. Now, I can proudly state that I have formed some of the greatest friendships I’ve ever known, creating a second family at Imperial. It all began with light conversations with others facing similar circumstances. What did I discover? It’s beneficial to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you’re not quite ready, don’t stress! There are numerous ice-breaker events designed to facilitate connections with others. Also, stay true to yourself. With such a diverse group at the university, you’re sure to find peers who resonate with you.
Another difficulty was the volume of work and the complexity of the material. There was a significant leap from A-levels, further amplified from the first term to the second. Being in such a setting can impact your self-esteem; you might feel less capable in comparison to your peers. Remember, everyone is navigating the same challenges. If you’re struggling with something, it’s likely others are too. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This is possibly the most crucial lesson of the first year. Reach out for help from both peers and faculty!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in the Materials department are outstanding. They genuinely want you to succeed and are aware of the challenges students encounter. They are sympathetic and keep the lines of communication open regarding our concerns. I didn’t utilize the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I regret not doing so earlier. I took the initiative to become a well-being representative for my year, which allowed me to connect with the faculty—a priceless opportunity. There are numerous avenues to engage with staff, and it’s one of the most beneficial actions you can take for yourself. My primary takeaway is to make the most of the resources available. You can never have too much support!
In summary, this year has shown me that anxious feelings regarding university are often unwarranted and can be eased through the support available from faculty and fellow students. It has illustrated that I am never truly alone and has taught me how to find joy even amidst the pressures of exams and deadlines.