By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was set to start my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a fresh student. Venturing into the unknown was not what my previously shy and introverted self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
One of the first and most intimidating obstacles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most frightening parts of beginning university, and if you are an incoming student, it might be a significant worry. On the initial day of moving into my accommodation, a few days ahead of the term starting, I spent the whole day in my room, too daunted to venture out and meet others. Now, I can assertively say I’ve formed some of the finest friendships here at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all commenced with casual conversations with individuals in similar circumstances. So, what did I realize? It’s advantageous to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you aren’t prepared or comfortable, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker events designed to assist you in connecting with others. Additionally, if you can be anything, be yourself. With such a wide range of individuals across the course and university, you’re sure to encounter like-minded peers.
Another hurdle was managing the workload and the complexity of the content. There was definitely a leap from A-levels, and an even larger leap from the first to the second term. Being in such an environment can be challenging for your self-esteem; you may observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few things aided me through this, one being the reminder that everyone is navigating similar struggles. If you don’t grasp something, I can nearly guarantee others are in the same situation. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This could be the most vital lesson of the first year. Reach out to peers and faculty!
This brings me to my next point. The staff in the Materials department are outstanding. They genuinely want you to thrive and understand the challenges students encounter. They are empathetic and maintain ongoing communication with us throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. I mentioned taking chances previously – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position gave me the opportunity to connect with the staff, which is invaluable. There are numerous ways to engage with staff, and it’s one of the best things you can do for yourself! My key takeaway is to make the most of the support available. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has demonstrated to me that feelings of nervousness about university are often misplaced and can be eased with the support provided by staff and fellow students. It has shown me that I am never isolated and how to find enjoyment despite the stress from exams and deadlines.