Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I was overcome with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding my future. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a new first-year student. Immersing myself in the unfamiliar wasn’t something my typically shy and reserved nature was used to. Looking back now, I see a year filled with personal development, challenges, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current position?
One of the first and most intimidating obstacles was forming friendships. This often stands as one of the most daunting parts of entering university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may represent one of your primary worries. On my initial day of moving into my residence, a few days prior to the start of the semester, I spent the entire day secluded in my room, too afraid to step out and introduce myself to anyone. However, sitting here now, I can proudly say I’ve forged some of the best friendships I’ve ever had, both within this university and in this program. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with those in similar circumstances. So, what did I discover? I found that it’s always best to take a leap at the beginning of the year. If you don’t feel entirely ready or at ease, don’t worry! There will be numerous opportunities for ice-breaking and events designed to facilitate connections with others. I also realized that if there’s one thing to be, it’s yourself. With the diversity of people throughout the course and university, you’re sure to find individuals who resonate with you.
Another challenge was managing the workload and the difficulty of the content. There was certainly a leap from A-levels, and in some respects, an even larger jump from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such an environment can be tough on your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inferior. A few strategies helped me navigate those feelings, one being the acknowledgment that everyone is facing similar challenges. If you find something perplexing, I can almost assure you there are others who are also confused. So, seek assistance. This could be the most crucial lesson to learn during your first year. Don’t hesitate to ask for help from your classmates and the faculty!
This brings me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely wish for your success and recognize that students encounter difficulties. They relate to students and maintain ongoing communication with us throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t really take advantage of the pastoral support until the year’s end, and I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned earlier about taking leaps – I did take one at the beginning of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This role allowed me to connect with the staff members, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to familiarize yourself with the staff, and it’s certainly one of the most advantageous actions you can take for your own benefit! My primary takeaway from this facet of university life is to make the most of the assistance available to you. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has taught me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are often baseless and can be eased through the various support systems available from staff and fellow students. It has shown me that I’m never alone and how to find enjoyment amid pressures like exams and deadlines.