By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously reserved self was familiar with. Looking back now, I recognize a year rich in personal development, obstacles, and plenty of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained over this year, and what is my current standing?
One of the foremost and most intimidating challenges was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting components of entering university, and for prospective students, it may be a significant worry. On my initial day of moving into my residence, a few days prior to classes starting, I spent the whole day in my room, too daunted to venture out and meet others. Now, I can proudly assert I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever had at this university and in this program. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with others experiencing similar situations. So, what lesson did I take away? It’s wise to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you’re not feeling ready or at ease, don’t stress! There will be numerous ice-breaker events designed to aid in your connections with others. I also found that being authentic is essential. With such a diverse array of individuals throughout the course and university, you are sure to encounter those who resonate with you.
Another hurdle was the amount of work and the complexity of the content. There was undoubtedly a leap from A-levels, and an even greater leap from the first to the second term. Being in such a setting can be challenging for your confidence; you may observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few factors assisted me in getting through this, one being the reminder that everyone is in the same situation. If something isn’t clear to you, it’s likely that others are grappling with it as well. So, ask for assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson to absorb in the first year. Don’t hesitate to seek help from both peers and staff!
This brings me to my next point. The staff in Materials are incredible. They genuinely desire for you to succeed and understand that students face difficulties. They show empathy towards us and maintain open lines of communication regarding our challenges. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had utilized it earlier. I spoke about taking leaps previously – I took one by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which is immensely beneficial. There are numerous methods to engage with staff, and it’s among the best things you can do for yourself! My key takeaway is to make the most of the available assistance. You can never have enough!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of apprehension, both prior to and during university, are frequently baseless and can be mitigated by the support provided by staff and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never alone and how to find joy amidst pressures like exams and deadlines.