Ten months back, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead as I embarked on my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unknown was unfamiliar territory for my previously shy self. Looking back on the last academic year, I recognize a time filled with personal growth, hurdles, and enjoyment. But what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the foremost and most intimidating hurdles was making friends. This is frequently a major concern for new university students. On my first day in my accommodation, I remained in my room all day, too daunted to meet new people. Now, I can proudly say I’ve forged some of the best friendships at this university and within my course. I’ve formed a second family at Imperial by simply engaging in casual conversations with others in similar circumstances. I discovered that taking a chance at the beginning of the year is advantageous. If you’re not ready, don’t fret—numerous ice-breaker events are available to help you connect with others. Being true to yourself is essential, as there are many diverse individuals across the course and university, and you will encounter people like you.
Another obstacle was the workload and the complexity of the material. There was a clear increase from A-levels, and an even more significant leap from the first to the second term. This environment can test your confidence, particularly when you compare yourself to others. Remember, everyone is facing similar challenges. If something is unclear, others likely don’t grasp it either, so seek assistance. This is vital to learn in the first year—reach out to peers and staff for help!
The staff in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely want students to thrive and understand the challenges we face. They maintain ongoing communication with us about 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 took a step by becoming a year well-being representative, which enabled me to connect with staff members. There are numerous ways to get acquainted with staff, and it’s advantageous for you! My primary lesson is to embrace the support available. You can never have too much assistance!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of anxiety about university are often misplaced and can be alleviated with the support offered by staff and students. I’ve learned that I’m never alone and how to enjoy myself despite pressures like exams and deadlines.