Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of commencing my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously introverted and quiet self was familiar with. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained this year, and what is my current stance?
One of the initial and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This can be among the most daunting elements of starting university, and if you happen to be a future student reading this, it might be a significant worry for you. On my first day moving into my accommodations, a few days before classes started, I spent the whole day in my room, too intimidated to venture out and meet others. Now, I can assert that I’ve forged some of the finest friendships here at university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all commenced with casual conversations with people in similar situations. So, what did I uncover? I discovered that taking a leap at the beginning of the year is essential. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker activities to assist you in connecting with others. I also learned that authenticity is vital. With the vast array of diverse individuals throughout the course and university, you are sure to encounter like-minded individuals.
An additional challenge was the volume of work and the difficulty of the material. There was certainly an increase from A-levels, and in some respects, an even larger jump from the first term to the second. Being in such an environment can shake your confidence; you may observe others studying and feel inadequate. What aided me was the realization that everyone is experiencing the same thing. If something is unclear, it’s likely that others are struggling as well. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson to grasp in your first year. Reach out to peers and faculty!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the challenges students confront. They relate to students and maintain ongoing communication regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking leaps, and I took a significant one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to build rapport with the staff, which is immensely beneficial. There are numerous avenues to connect with faculty, and it’s one of the most advantageous actions you can take for yourself! My primary lesson is to make the most of the assistance available. You can never have too much support!
In summary, this year has revealed to me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are frequently unfounded and can be mitigated with the support provided by faculty and fellow students. It has illustrated that I am never alone and has taught me how to find enjoyment even amidst pressures like exams and deadlines.