Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, apprehension, and uncertainty regarding my future. I was on the brink of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unknown was not something my formerly shy and introverted self was familiar with. Looking back now, I recognize a year teeming with personal development, hurdles, and enjoyment. So, what insights has this year offered, and what is my current position?
One of the first and most intimidating obstacles was establishing friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting parts of commencing university, and if you’re an incoming student reading this, it may be a significant source of worry for you. On my initial day moving into residence, just days before the semester started, I spent the whole day in my room, too daunted to venture out and meet others. Today, however, I can proudly say that I’ve cultivated some of the most rewarding friendships I’ve ever had, here at this university and in this program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, all stemming from sparking casual conversations with classmates in similar situations. So, what have I learned? It’s essential to take that initial leap at the beginning of the year. If you’re not entirely prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be plenty of ice-breaker activities to assist you in connecting with others. Also, keep in mind to be authentic. With so many diverse individuals throughout the course and university, you’re likely to find those who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was the workload and the complexity of the material. There was a clear escalation from A-levels, and an even greater jump from the first to the second term. Being thrust into such an atmosphere can shake your self-assurance; you might observe others studying and feel inferior. What helped me was recalling that everyone is facing similar challenges. If you struggle with a concept, I can nearly assure you that others are in the same situation. So, seek assistance. This may be the most critical skill to cultivate in your first year. Reach out for support from peers and faculty!
This brings me to my next point. The faculty involved in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely want you to succeed and understand the difficulties students encounter. They show empathy and maintain ongoing communication with us throughout the year regarding our worries. I didn’t fully engage with the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. I mentioned earlier about taking chances – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to familiarize myself with the staff, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to connect with faculty, and it’s one of the best actions you can take for your personal growth! My primary takeaway from this aspect of university is to fully utilize the support available. You can never have too much!
Ultimately, this year has taught me that the anxious feelings associated with starting and being at university are usually unfounded and can be mitigated with the support available from faculty and fellow students. It has demonstrated that I am never alone and taught me how to enjoy myself despite challenges like exams and deadlines.