Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I felt anxious, fearful, and unsure about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of commencing my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously timid and introverted self was used to. Looking back on the last academic year, I recognize a path of personal growth, obstacles, and plenty of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
One of the first and most intimidating obstacles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting elements of starting university, and if you are an incoming student, it might pose a significant worry for you. On my initial day of moving into my residence, a few days ahead of classes starting, I spent the entire day secluded in my room, far too daunted to step out and introduce myself to anyone. Now, 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 began with a bit of small talk with individuals in similar situations. So, what did I discover? I understood that taking a chance at the beginning of the year is beneficial. If you’re unsure or uncomfortable, don’t stress! There will be numerous ice-breaker activities and events to aid in connecting with others. I also realized that being authentic is essential. With such a wide array of people in the course and university, you are sure to find those who connect with you.
Another hurdle was the amount of work and the complexity of the content. There was undoubtedly an elevation from A-levels, and in some respects, an even more significant jump from the first term to the second. Being in such a setting can be challenging for your self-assurance; you may observe others studying and feel less capable. A few things assisted me in overcoming this, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If something confuses you, I can almost assure you others are confused as well. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek help. This might be the most crucial lesson to grasp in the first year. Reach out for support from your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The staff in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely wish for your success and recognize the difficulties students encounter. They are sympathetic towards students and keep open lines of communication regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully engage with the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had done so earlier. I previously mentioned taking chances – I took one by becoming a year wellbeing representative. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous avenues to interact with staff, and it’s among the best actions you can take for yourself! My key takeaway from this aspect of university is to make the most of the support provided. You can never have an excess of it!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are often baseless and can be eased with the support options available through staff and fellow students. It’s made me realize that I’m never alone and has taught me how to enjoy myself in spite of pressures like exams and deadlines.