Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Taking such a significant leap was not something 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 situation?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is often one of the most frightening facets of commencing university, and if you’re an incoming student, it might be a primary worry. On my initial day of moving into my residence, just days prior to the start of the term, I spent the whole day in my room, too daunted to step outside and introduce myself. Now, I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the best friendships here at university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and all it required was some casual conversation with others in similar circumstances. So, what have I realized? It’s advisable to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you’re not prepared or feel uneasy, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker activities to assist you in connecting with peers. Also, stay true to yourself. With such a diverse array of individuals at the university, you’re sure to encounter those who resonate with you.
An additional challenge was managing the workload and the complexity of the content. There was a clear transition from A-levels, and an even larger leap from the first term to the second. Being in such a setting can shake your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inferior. What aided me was the realization that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If something is unclear to you, it’s likely that others are also struggling. Therefore, seek assistance. This could be the most crucial lesson from the first year. Don’t hesitate to ask for support from classmates and faculty!
This brings me to my next point. The faculty within Materials is remarkable. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the difficulties that students encounter. They show understanding and maintain ongoing communication about our concerns. I didn’t utilize the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. I mentioned taking leaps – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to connect with the faculty, which is invaluable. There are numerous avenues to engage with staff, and it’s among the best choices you can make for yourself! My primary takeaway is to fully utilize the assistance available. There’s no such thing as too much help!
In conclusion, this year has taught me that anxious feelings about university are frequently unfounded and can be alleviated through the support provided by staff and fellow students. I’ve discovered that I’m never alone and how to find enjoyment despite the pressures from exams and deadlines.