Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain 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 formerly shy self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and plenty of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
One of the initial and most intimidating challenges was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting aspects of commencing university, and if you’re a future student, it may be a concern for you. On my first day of moving into my residence, prior to the start of term, I spent the whole day in my room, too daunted to venture out and meet others. Today, I can assert with confidence that I’ve forged some of the best friendships at this university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with others in comparable situations. So, what have I discovered? I’ve realized that it’s beneficial to take a chance at the onset of the year. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be ample ice-breaking occasions and events designed to help you engage with others. I’ve also understood that being authentic is vital. With such a diverse group of people throughout the program and university, you are sure to find those who connect with you.
Another obstacle I faced was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the material. There was a significant transition from A-levels, and an even more substantial leap from the first term to the second. Being in such an environment can occasionally undermine your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel insufficient. What assisted me was the realization that everyone is in a similar situation. If a concept is unclear to you, it’s likely unclear to others as well. Therefore, seek assistance. This could be the most crucial lesson to grasp in your first year. Don’t hesitate to reach out to peers and faculty!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in the Materials department are fantastic. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the challenges students encounter. They show understanding and maintain ongoing communication with us throughout the academic year. I didn’t take full advantage of the pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I spoke earlier about taking leaps – I made one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to become acquainted with the staff, which is invaluable. There are numerous ways to engage with the faculty, and it’s among the best decisions you can make for yourself! My key takeaway is to leverage the support available. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of anxiety, both before and during university, are frequently unfounded and can be eased with the support options provided by staff and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never alone and how to have fun despite pressures like exams and deadlines.