Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was foreign to my previously introverted and reserved nature. Now, upon reflection, I perceive a year abundant with personal development, obstacles, and enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current position?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting elements of commencing university, and if you’re a prospective learner, it could be a significant worry for you. On my inaugural day of moving into my housing, just days before the semester commenced, I spent the whole day secluded in my room, feeling too daunted to venture out and meet others. Now, I can proudly state that I’ve formed some of the most amazing friendships here at university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, all beginning with casual conversations with individuals in comparable situations. What did I discover? Taking a leap at the outset of the year is the best approach. If you feel unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! There will be an abundance of ice-breaker activities to assist you in connecting with others. I also learned that authenticity is essential. With such a diverse array of people throughout the course and university, you’re sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was the magnitude of the workload and the complexity of the material. There was certainly a notable increase from A-levels, and an even more significant jump from the first term to the second. Being in such an environment can undermine your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel unfit. What aided me was recalling that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you don’t grasp something, it’s likely others are struggling as well. Hence, ask for assistance. This could be the most vital lesson to grasp in your first year. Request help from colleagues and faculty!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely wish for your success and understand the challenges faced by students. They show empathy and maintain ongoing communication about our concerns. I did not fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had done so sooner. I mentioned earlier about taking leaps – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This role enabled me to become acquainted with the staff, which is immensely valuable. There are numerous opportunities to connect with faculty, and it’s one of the most beneficial things you can do for your own sake! My primary takeaway is to seize the assistance provided. You can never receive too much!
In summary, this year has taught me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are frequently baseless and can be mitigated with the support available from staff and fellow students. I’ve realized I am never alone, and I’ve learned how to have fun despite pressures such as exams and deadlines.