Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I found myself feeling anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was on the brink of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Embracing the unfamiliar was not something my formerly shy self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year full of personal development, obstacles, 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 forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting parts of beginning university, and if you’re an incoming student, it might be a significant worry. On my initial day of moving into my residence, just days before classes commenced, I spent the whole day in my room, too nervous to venture out and meet others. Now I can proudly say I’ve forged some of the best friendships here at university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with others in similar positions. So, what did I take away from this? It’s essential to take the plunge at the start of the year. If you’re not prepared or feel uncomfortable, don’t stress! There will be ample ice-breaker activities designed to help you connect with others. I also discovered that being genuine is crucial. With such a diverse array of people across the program and university, you’re sure to find those who connect with you.
Another challenge was the volume of work and the depth of the material. There was certainly a leap from A-levels, and an even larger leap from the first term to the second. Being in such an atmosphere can be a strain on your self-esteem; you might see others studying and feel inadequate. What proved beneficial for me was the realization that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you don’t grasp a concept, it’s likely that others are struggling too. So, seek assistance. This might be the most vital lesson to absorb in your first year. Ask for help from fellow students and instructors!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are fantastic. They genuinely want you to thrive and understand the challenges that students encounter. They empathize with us and keep ongoing communication throughout the year. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until later, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned earlier about taking leaps – I took one by becoming a wellbeing representative for my year. This position allowed me to get acquainted with the staff, which is priceless. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the best choices you can make for yourself! My primary takeaway is to capitalize on the support available. You can never have too much help!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are often baseless and can be eased with the assistance offered by staff and fellow students. I’ve realized I’m never alone and have learned how to have fun despite pressures like exams and deadlines.