Authored 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 about to embark on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously shy and introverted self was used to. Looking back on the past year, I recognize a time of personal development, challenges, and a lot 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 parts of starting university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be a significant worry for you. On my initial day moving into my residence, a few days prior to classes starting, I spent the whole day concealed in my room, too daunted to step out and interact with others. Now, I can confidently affirm that I’ve made some of the best friends I’ve ever had here at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with individuals in similar situations. So, what did I take away from this? I realized that taking a chance at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you’re not ready or at ease, don’t stress! There will be numerous ice-breaker events to facilitate connections with others. I also discovered that being true to yourself is essential. With such a wide array of people throughout the course and university, you’re sure to encounter those who resonate with you.
Another challenge involved the volume of work and complexity of the material. There was a marked transition from A-levels, and an even more significant shift from the first term to the second. Being in such a setting can test your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel as if you’re not measuring up. What assisted me was the understanding that everyone is experiencing the same situation. If you find something confusing, it’s likely that others are as well. So, don’t hesitate to seek help. This could be the most vital lesson to grasp in the first year. Reach out for support from classmates and staff!
This brings me to my next point. The faculty in Materials is exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and appreciate the challenges students endure. They show empathy toward us and maintain open lines of communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until near the end of the year, but I wish I had started earlier. I mentioned previously about taking leaps – 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 ways to engage with the faculty, and it’s one of the best things you can do for yourself! My primary takeaway is to make the most of the assistance available. You can never have too much support!
In summary, this year has taught me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are frequently unfounded and can be eased with the diverse support options offered by staff and fellow students. It has demonstrated to me that I’m never alone and has shown me how to enjoy myself despite pressures such as exams and deadlines.