Ten months back, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding the future. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown wasn’t something my previously timid and reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal growth, challenges, and joy. But what have I discovered, and where do I stand now?
One of the first and most intimidating obstacles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most frightening parts of commencing university, and if you are an incoming student reading this, it might be a significant worry for you. On my first day of moving into my dorm, a few days prior to classes starting, I spent the whole day in my room, too apprehensive to step out and introduce myself to others. Now, I can proudly say that I have made some of the best friends here at university and within my program. I have discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with individuals in the same boat. What did I discover? It’s essential to take a leap at the beginning of the year. If you aren’t ready or comfortable, don’t fret! There will be plenty of ice-breaker activities to assist you in connecting with others. Additionally, if there is one piece of advice to take, it’s to be yourself. With such a variety of people throughout the course and university, you are sure to find individuals who share your interests.
Another hurdle was the workload and the complexity of the material. There was definitely a shift from A-levels, and in certain aspects, an even greater leap from the first term to the second. Being in such a setting can test your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. What aided me was recalling that everyone is in the same situation. If you don’t grasp something, others probably don’t as well. So, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This might be the most vital lesson during the first year. Seek guidance from peers and faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are fantastic. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the challenges students face. They relate to our struggles and keep lines of communication open regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until late in the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. I mentioned taking leaps previously – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which is incredibly valuable. There are numerous ways to interact with faculty, and it’s one of the best actions you can take for yourself! My primary takeaway is to make the most of the support available. You can never receive too much!
In summary, this year taught me that feelings of nervousness, both before and during university, are often unwarranted and can be mitigated by the support systems provided by staff and fellow students. It taught me that I am never alone and how to find enjoyment amid stressors like exams and deadlines.