By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Around ten months ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about embarking on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Stepping into the unknown was not something my previously reserved self was familiar with. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and enjoyment. What insights have I gained, and where do I stand today?
One of the first hurdles was forming friendships, a daunting part of beginning university. On my initial day in accommodations, I remained in my room, too daunted to interact with others. Now, I can proudly say I’ve forged some of my closest friendships during my university experience. I discovered a second family at Imperial by striking up conversations with others in similar predicaments. The takeaway? Take the plunge at the year’s outset. If you’re hesitant, don’t fret; numerous ice-breaker activities are available to assist you in connecting. Be true to yourself, and you’ll encounter like-minded individuals.
Another obstacle was the volume of work and the complexity of the material, which represented a significant leap from A-levels and even more so from the first term to the second. It’s easy to feel inadequate when it appears others grasp concepts more swiftly. Keep in mind, everyone is facing similar challenges. If something confuses you, it’s likely that others are struggling too. Seek assistance—it’s vital in your first year. Reach out to peers and faculty!
The faculty in Materials is exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and understand the challenges that students encounter. They communicate proactively with us regarding our concerns. Although I didn’t utilize pastoral support until the year’s end, I wish I had done so sooner. I took the initiative to become a well-being representative for my year, which allowed me to connect with faculty—a priceless chance. There are many avenues to build relationships with staff, and pursuing this is one of the best decisions you can make. Embrace the assistance available; you can never have too much!
This year has taught me that feelings of anxiety about university are often unwarranted and can be diminished with support from both staff and peers. I’ve realized that I’m never truly alone and how to enjoy myself in spite of the pressures from exams and deadlines.