By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead as I embarked on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was a deviation for my typically reserved self. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and enjoyment. What insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the primary and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most frightening aspects of commencing university, and if you’re a prospective student, it may be a significant worry. On my inaugural day in my accommodation, a few days ahead of classes starting, I remained in my room all day, too daunted to step out and meet others. Now, I can proudly say that I’ve formed some of the best friendships during my time at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with others in similar situations. So, what did I learn? I’ve realized that taking a leap at the start of the year is vital. If you’re not prepared, no need to fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker activities to assist you in connecting with others. I also discovered that being authentic is essential. With such a diverse population at the university, you’re sure to encounter individuals who resonate with you.
Another challenge involved the workload and complexity of the material. There was a marked increase from A-levels, and an even more significant jump from the first to the second term. Being in such a setting can be challenging for your self-esteem; you may feel inadequate in comparison to others. What aided me was remembering that everyone is experiencing similar struggles. If you find something challenging, chances are others do too. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most crucial skill to cultivate in your first year. Reach out to classmates and faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The staff in Materials are exceptional. Their goal is to see students thrive and they understand the difficulties we encounter. They empathize with our situations and keep communication open throughout the year. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had done so earlier. I previously mentioned taking leaps – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to build connections with the staff, which is priceless. There are numerous ways to familiarize yourself with staff, and this is one of the best decisions you can make for yourself! My key takeaway is to make the most of the support available. You can never have too much assistance!
All in all, this year demonstrated that feelings of nervousness regarding university are often unwarranted and can be eased through the available support from both staff and peers. It taught me that I’m never alone and how to find enjoyment amid stressors like exams and deadlines.