By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Just ten months ago, in October 2022, I was filled with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead as I embarked on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Jumping into the unknown was far removed from what my previously timid and reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, obstacles, and plenty of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting elements of commencing university, and if you’re an aspiring student, it may be a significant concern. On my initial day settling into my accommodation, just days before classes commenced, I spent the whole day in my room, too daunted to go out and introduce myself. Now, I can proudly state that I’ve formed some amazing friendships here at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, all beginning with casual conversations with others in the same boat. So, what lesson did I draw from this? It’s important to take that initial leap at the beginning of the year. If you’re feeling unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaking events to aid you in connecting with others. Also, be yourself. With such a wide array of individuals throughout the course and university, you’re sure to encounter like-minded people.
Another hurdle was the volume of work and the complexity of the material. The transition from A-levels was noticeably substantial, and an even bigger jump occurred from the first to the second term. Being in such a setting can be tough on your confidence; you may notice others studying and begin to feel inadequate. What helped me was recognizing that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If something is unclear to you, there’s a good chance that it’s unclear to others as well. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek help. This may be the most vital lesson to grasp in your first year. Reach out to peers and staff for assistance!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials is outstanding. They genuinely want you to thrive and are aware of the challenges that students encounter. They are compassionate and keep the lines of communication open regarding our difficulties. I didn’t fully take advantage of the support available until later in the year, but I wish I had utilized it earlier. I mentioned taking leaps before – one of those was becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which is priceless. There are countless ways to engage with the faculty, and it’s one of the best choices you can make for your own benefit! My main insight is to embrace the assistance available. You can never have too much support!
In conclusion, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are frequently baseless and can be eased through the support systems provided by staff and fellow students. I’ve realized that I’m never alone and have discovered how to have a good time even in the face of stressors like exams and deadlines.