By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a fresh first-year student. Venturing into the unknown was not something my traditionally reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was making friends. This is frequently one of the most daunting elements of commencing university, and if you’re reading this as a potential student, it may be a significant concern for you. On my initial day of moving into my accommodation, a few days ahead of the start of classes, I remained cloistered in my room all day, too apprehensive to venture out and meet other students. Today, however, I can assertively say I’ve formed some of the finest friendships here at this university and within this program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all commenced with casual chats with people in similar situations. So, what did I come to understand? It’s best to take a leap at the onset of the year. If you aren’t prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be many ice-breaker events to facilitate connections with others. I also discovered that being authentic is essential. With such a diverse group of individuals throughout the course and university, you’re likely to encounter others who share your values.
Another obstacle was the workload and difficulty of the content. There was undoubtedly a noticeable increase from A-levels, and in certain respects, an even greater leap from the first to the second term. Being in such an environment can test your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few strategies helped me navigate this, one being the reminder that everyone is in the same situation. If you fail to grasp something, I can almost assure you that others don’t understand it either. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This may be the most crucial lesson to absorb in the first year. Ask for help from your peers and the faculty!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They have a genuine desire for you to thrive and comprehend the difficulties students encounter. They are empathetic towards us and maintain open lines of communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t utilize the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had accessed it sooner. I mentioned taking risks earlier – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This role allowed me to connect with the faculty, which is priceless. There are numerous avenues to engage with the staff, and it’s one of the most beneficial actions you can take for yourself! My primary lesson learned is to leverage the support available. One can never have too much!
In summary, this year has taught me that feelings of nervousness, both before and during university, are frequently unfounded and can be alleviated with the support resources available from faculty and fellow students. It has shown me that I am never alone and how to enjoy myself despite challenges like exams and deadlines.