Ten months prior, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about the future as I embarked on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a fresh student. Venturing into the unknown was not something my formerly reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, obstacles, and enjoyment. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This is frequently a major worry for incoming university students. On my initial day of moving into my residence, I stayed in my room the whole day, too daunted to venture out and meet others. Now, I can assert with confidence that I’ve formed some of the best friendships here at university. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, simply by striking up small conversations with others facing similar experiences. The takeaway? Take a chance at the start of the year. Even if you don’t feel prepared, there will be numerous chances to connect with others. Be authentic, and you’ll encounter people like you.
Another obstacle was the amount of work and the complexity of the material. The shift from A-levels was substantial, and the transition from the first to the second term was even more pronounced. It’s easy to feel inadequate when it appears that others are coping well. Keep in mind, everyone is in the same situation. If you find something difficult to grasp, others probably do, too. Don’t hesitate to seek help—it’s vital in the first year. Look for support from classmates and faculty.
The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want students to thrive and are aware of the challenges faced. They keep consistent communication regarding any concerns. I didn’t make full use of the pastoral support until later in the year, but I regret not doing so earlier. I took a step forward by becoming a year well-being representative, which allowed me to engage with faculty members—an invaluable opportunity. There are many avenues to familiarize yourself with the staff, and it’s one of the most beneficial actions you can take. Make the most of the support available; you can never have too much assistance.
In summary, this year has shown me that apprehensive feelings regarding university are often baseless and can be eased with the support provided by staff and fellow students. I’ve realized that I’m never truly alone and have learned how to have fun despite the pressures of exams and deadlines.