Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly ten months back, in October 2022, I found myself overcome with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the brink of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Engaging with the unfamiliar was not something my previously more introverted self was used to. Looking back now, I can 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 situation?
One of the early and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This often emerges as one of the most nerve-wracking parts of commencing university, and if you’re reading this as a future student, it might be a significant worry for you. On my initial day of moving into my accommodation, just before classes were scheduled to start, I spent the whole day sequestered in my room, too apprehensive to step out and interact with others. Today, I can assert that I’ve formed some of the best friendships here at university and in my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, all stemming from initiating small chats with individuals in comparable situations. So, what have I discovered? I realized that taking a leap at the outset of the year is always advantageous. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There are countless ice-breaker activities designed to assist you in connecting with others. I also found that being true to yourself is essential. With such a diverse array of individuals throughout the course and university, you are sure to encounter like-minded people.
An additional challenge was managing the workload and the complexity of the material. There was unquestionably a significant increase from A-levels, and in certain respects, an even greater jump from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such an environment can strain your confidence; you may observe others studying and feel less capable. What got me through was the reassurance that everyone is navigating the same challenges. If something isn’t clear to you, I can almost promise that others are grappling with it too. Therefore, seek assistance. This might be the key lesson to grasp in your first year. Reach out for help from classmates and faculty!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials are remarkable. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize the hurdles students experience. They show empathy and keep in regular contact with us throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had tapped into it earlier. I mentioned earlier about taking leaps – I made one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the faculty, which is incredibly worthwhile. There are many avenues to engage with staff, and this is one of the most beneficial things you can do for yourself! My main takeaway is to leverage the resources available to you. You can never have too much assistance!
All in all, this year has taught me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are frequently unfounded and can be mitigated with the abundant support options provided by staff and fellow students. It has illustrated that I am never alone and has shown me how to relish my experience despite stressors such as exams and deadlines.