Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Approximately ten months ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of commencing my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously reserved self was familiar with. Looking back over the past year, I recognize a time filled with personal development, challenges, and enjoyment! So, what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself now?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most nerve-wracking elements of starting university, and if you’re an upcoming student, it may be a significant worry. On the initial day of moving into my accommodation, a few days prior to classes beginning, I remained in my room all day, too apprehensive to venture out and socialize. Now, I can proudly state that I have formed some of the most wonderful friendships during my time at university and in my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, initiated by casual conversations with others in comparable situations. What have I learned? It’s advisable to take a risk at the beginning of the year. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be various ice-breaker events to assist you in connecting with others. Additionally, if there’s one thing you should be, it’s yourself. With such a diverse group of people across the program and university, you are sure to encounter like-minded individuals.
An additional challenge was the academic workload and the complexity of the material. There was certainly a transition from A-levels, with an even more significant shift from the first to the second term. Being in such an environment can be a test of your confidence; you may observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few factors helped me navigate this, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re struggling with something, chances are others are as well. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This may be the most critical lesson during your first year. Reach out to peers and faculty!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to succeed and understand the challenges that students endure. They show empathy and keep in consistent contact with us throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the latter part of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking risks previously – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which is invaluable. There are numerous avenues for engaging with faculty, and it’s one of the best moves you can make for yourself! My primary takeaway is to make the most of the support available to you. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has demonstrated to me that anxious feelings, both prior to and during university, are frequently unfounded and can be mitigated through the support offered by staff and fellow students. I’ve discovered that I’m never alone and how to find enjoyment even amidst pressures such as exams and deadlines.