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 brink of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, challenges, and immense joy! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the initial and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This can be one of the most unsettling elements of commencing university, and for any prospective students, it might be a significant worry. On my first day of moving into my residence, a few days before classes started, I remained in my room the entire day, too daunted to venture out and meet others. Today, I can proudly affirm that I’ve formed some of the best friendships here at university and in my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all kicked off with casual conversations with others in similar situations. So, what have I gleaned? It is advisable to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you’re not prepared or at ease, don’t fret! Numerous ice-breaking events exist to facilitate connections with others. Furthermore, just be yourself. With such a diverse array of people across the program and the university, you’re sure to discover like-minded peers.
Another challenge was the demands of the workload and the complexity of the material. There was a significant leap from A-levels, and an even more substantial shift from the first term to the second. Being in such an environment can strain your confidence; you might feel inadequate in comparison to your peers. What aided me was the realization that everyone faces similar challenges. If you find something difficult to grasp, it’s likely that others are struggling too. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This may be one of the most crucial lessons of the first year. Reach out for help from classmates and faculty!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and are aware of the obstacles students encounter. They engage with us consistently throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t tap into pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I had earlier. I mentioned earlier about taking risks – I took a leap by becoming a year wellbeing representative. This position allowed me to connect with the faculty, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with the staff, and it’s among the best actions you can take! My main takeaway is to fully utilize the resources available. You can never have too much support!
In summary, this year has shown me that anxious feelings about university are often baseless and can be eased with the assistance available from both staff and peers. I’ve realized that I’m never truly alone and how to find enjoyment amidst the pressures of exams and deadlines.