Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious and unsure about what lay ahead as I geared up to start my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Embracing the unknown was not something my formerly timid self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and fun. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This could be one of the most daunting elements of entering university, and if you are a future student, it may be a significant worry. On my initial day of moving into housing, a few days before classes commenced, I spent the whole day in my room, too nervous to go out and meet others. Now, I can proudly say that I’ve made some of the greatest friends here at university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with light-hearted conversations with others in the same boat. What did I learn? It’s beneficial to take a risk at the beginning of the year. If you feel unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! There will be many ice-breaking activities to help you bond with others. Also, if there’s one thing to be, it’s genuine. With a diverse range of people across the program and university, you are sure to find those who share your interests.
Another difficulty was the amount of work and the complexity of the material. There was a clear escalation from A-levels, and an even greater leap from the first term to the second. Being in such a setting can be challenging for your self-esteem; you may observe others studying and feel inadequate. What helped me was remembering that everyone shares similar experiences. If you don’t grasp something, chances are others don’t either. Therefore, seek assistance. This is potentially the most important skill to cultivate in your first year. Request help from classmates and faculty!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely want you to thrive and are aware of the difficulties students encounter. They show understanding and keep in close contact with us regarding our challenges. I didn’t fully take advantage of pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had embraced it earlier. I mentioned taking risks before – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which is invaluable. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the best decisions you can make for yourself! My main takeaway is to utilize the assistance available. You can never have too much backing!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of anxiety regarding university are frequently unfounded and can be eased with the help available from faculty and fellow students. I’ve realized that I’m never alone and how to have fun despite challenges like exams and deadlines.