Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what was to come. 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 previously timid and reserved self was accustomed to. Looking back on the past academic year, I perceive a journey of personal development, challenges, and plenty of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current position?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting aspects of beginning university, and if you are a potential student reading this, it could be a significant worry for you. On the day I moved into my accommodation, a few days preceding the start of the term, I spent the whole day sequestered in my room, too anxious to venture out and meet others. However, as I sit here today, I can assertively state that I have made some of the best friends I’ve ever had, both at this university and in my program. I have discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with people in similar circumstances. So, what did I discover? I learned that taking the plunge at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous opportunities for ice-breaking and events to facilitate connections with others. I also discovered that authenticity is crucial. With such a diverse array of people within the course and university, you are sure to find like-minded peers.
Another challenge was the academic workload and the complexity of the material. There was certainly a notable increase from A-levels, and in some respects, an even bigger jump from the first term to the second. Being placed in such an environment can challenge your self-confidence; you may observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few strategies helped me tackle this sentiment, one being the assurance that everyone shares the same struggles. If something is unclear, I can almost assure you others are confused too. So, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This could be the most vital lesson to learn in your first year. Seek help from your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are remarkable. They truly want you to thrive and recognize the challenges students encounter. They empathize with us and maintain ongoing communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t really use the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner. I mentioned earlier about taking risks – I took one at the beginning of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This role gave me the opportunity to connect with the faculty members, which holds immense value. There are numerous ways to get acquainted with staff, and it is certainly one of the best things you can do for yourself! My primary takeaway from this element of university is to utilize the support available. You can never have too much!
In general, this year has demonstrated to me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are often baseless and can be mitigated by the various support mechanisms provided by faculty and fellow students. It has shown me that I am never truly alone and how to relish my experiences amidst stressors like exams and deadlines.