Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
It was ten months ago, in October 2022, when I found myself overwhelmed with nerves, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the brink of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a fresh student. Venturing into the unknown was not something my formerly shy and reserved self was used to. Now, looking back on the last year, I can see a path of personal growth, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyment! So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the foremost and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting elements of beginning university, and if you are an incoming student, it might pose a major worry. On my initial day moving into my housing, a few days prior to the start of classes, I spent the whole day in my room, too nervous to venture out and meet others. Today, I am proud to say I have formed some of the best friendships here at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all kicked off with casual conversations with those in similar positions. So, what have I learned? It’s essential to take a chance at the start of the year. If you feel unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! Numerous ice-breaker opportunities and events will be available to help you engage with others. I also discovered that authenticity is vital. With such a wide array of individuals throughout the course and university, you will surely encounter like-minded people.
The workload and the difficulty of the material presented another challenge. There was a marked increase from A-levels, and an even more significant jump from the first to the second term. Being in such an environment can be challenging for your confidence; you may observe others studying and feel insufficient. What aided me was the realization that everyone is navigating the same difficulties. If you’re struggling with a concept, there are probably others who are too. Therefore, seek assistance. This may be the most crucial ability to cultivate in the first year. Don’t hesitate to ask for support from your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The staff within Materials are fantastic. They genuinely want you to thrive and are aware of the challenges students encounter. They relate to us and maintain ongoing communication throughout the year regarding our issues. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the end of the year, and I regret not doing so earlier. I spoke of taking risks before – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to form relationships with the staff, which is invaluable. There are numerous ways to engage with the staff, and it’s one of the best choices you can make for yourself! My key takeaway is to utilize the assistance available. You can never have too much support!
In summary, this year has shown me that the anxious feelings prior to and during university are often baseless and can be alleviated with the various support structures provided by staff and fellow students. I’ve come to realize that I am never alone and how to find enjoyment even in the face of stressors like exams and deadlines.