Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. As I prepared to start my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student, stepping into the unknown was a challenge for my formerly shy and introverted nature. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, hurdles, and enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and where do I stand today?
One of the first and most intimidating obstacles was forging friendships. This is frequently a primary worry for newcomers to university, and if you’re reading this as an incoming student, it may be weighing on your mind as well. On the day I settled into my accommodation, just before the semester commenced, I remained in my room all day, too daunted to socialize. Now, I can proudly state that I’ve formed some of the closest friendships I’ve ever experienced, both within this university and in my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, all by engaging in casual conversations with others in similar predicaments. So, what did I discover? I learned that taking a step forward at the beginning of the year is vital. If you’re not yet prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaking activities to assist you in meeting others. I also learned to embrace my true self. With the diverse array of individuals throughout the course and university, you’re sure to encounter those who resonate with you.
Another hurdle was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the subject matter. There was a significant leap from A-level studies, and even more noticeably from the first term to the second. Navigating such an environment can test your confidence; you may witness others deeply engrossed in studying and feel insufficient. What aided me was the reminder that everyone shares similar struggles. If something is unclear to you, it’s likely unclear to others too. So, don’t hesitate to seek help. This may be the most crucial lesson during your first year. Reach out for support from classmates and faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely want you to thrive and are aware of the challenges students encounter. They show empathy and maintain ongoing communication with us regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully embrace the pastoral support system until late in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking leaps previously – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with faculty members, which is incredibly beneficial. There are various ways to get to know the staff, and it’s one of the best things you can do for yourself! My key takeaway is to fully utilize the support available to you. You can never have an excess of it!
In summary, this year has revealed that the apprehensive feelings preceding and during university are often baseless and can be mitigated with the support provided by staff and fellow students. It has shown me that I’m never isolated and how to find joy in myself despite the pressures of exams and deadlines.