Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was filled 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 reserved self was familiar with. Looking back now, I perceive a year brimming with personal development, challenges, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained this year, and where do I stand now?
One of the first and most intimidating challenges was forging friendships. This is undoubtedly one of the more daunting elements of commencing university, and if you’re a prospective student perusing this, it might be a significant worry for you. On my first day moving into my lodgings, a few days ahead of the term starting, I spent the whole day sequestered in my room, far too daunted to step out and engage with others. However, today, I can assertively say that I have formed some of the most remarkable friendships I’ve ever had here at this university and within this program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all commenced with casual conversations with people in similar circumstances. So, what did I discover? I realized that making a bold move at the onset of the year is always beneficial. If you’re feeling unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! There will be an abundance of opportunities for ice-breaking and events to facilitate connections with others. I also learned that if you have to be anything, be genuine. With so many diverse individuals across the program and university, you are sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another challenge was the intensity of the workload and the difficulty of the material. There was certainly a leap from A-levels, and in some respects, an even greater jump from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such an environment isn’t always great for your self-esteem; you may see others studying and feel insufficient. A few things assisted me through that sentiment, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If something is unclear to you, I can almost assure you that others are equally perplexed. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This could be the most crucial lesson to learn in your first year. Reach out for support from your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize that students face challenges. They show empathy towards students and keep us updated about our concerns throughout the year. Although I didn’t utilize the pastoral support until nearly the end of the year, I wish I had engaged with it earlier. I spoke of taking leaps earlier – I embraced one at the beginning of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This role allowed me to familiarize myself with the faculty members, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to connect with staff, and it’s undoubtedly one of the most advantageous actions you can take for yourself! My primary lesson from this facet of university life is to capitalize on the help available. You can never have too much!
Overall, this year has enlightened me that anxious feelings, both prior to and during university, are frequently baseless and can be mitigated by the various support options accessible from staff and classmates. It has shown me that I am never truly alone, and it has illustrated how to find enjoyment amidst pressures like exams and deadlines.