By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was filled with anxiety and uncertainty as I embarked on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unknown was not something my once-timid self was used to. Looking back now, I see a year brimming with personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This can be one of the most daunting parts of beginning university, and for those of you who are prospective students, it may be a significant worry. On my first day of moving into my accommodation, just prior to the start of the term, I spent the whole day in my room, too fearful to venture out and meet new people. Today, I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the finest friendships here at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with light conversations with others in comparable situations. What have I learned? It’s essential to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you’re not prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There are numerous ice-breaker events designed to facilitate connections with others. Additionally, be authentic. With so many varied individuals throughout the course and the university, you’ll undoubtedly find people who share your interests.
Another obstacle was the volume of work and the complexity of the material. There was a significant transition from A-levels, and an even larger jump from the first to the second term. Being in such a setting can be challenging for your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. What aided me was the realization that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you find something difficult, chances are others do too. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This could be the most vital lesson of the first year. Reach out to your peers and faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize the difficulties students encounter. They are empathetic and keep communication open throughout the year concerning our issues. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. I mentioned earlier about taking risks – I certainly did by becoming a year well-being representative. This opportunity enabled me to connect with the staff, which is tremendously beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the most advantageous things you can do for yourself! My primary takeaway is to make the most of the assistance provided. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has shown me that anxious feelings about university are frequently unfounded and can be eased with the support provided by staff and fellow students. I’ve discovered that I’m never alone and how to have fun despite pressures like exams and deadlines.