Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about my future as I embarked on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not what my previously reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, hurdles, and plenty of enjoyment! What insights has this year provided, and what is my current situation?
One of the foremost and most intimidating obstacles was forming friendships. This often ranks as one of the most daunting elements of starting university, and if you’re an upcoming student, it could be a significant worry. On my first day of moving into my accommodation, just ahead of the term, I remained in my room all day, feeling too daunted to step out and socialize. Today, I proudly claim I have forged some of the finest friendships I’ve ever experienced at this university and within this program. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, starting with light conversations with peers in similar circumstances. So, what wisdom did I gain? I discovered that it’s always advantageous to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you’re feeling unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! There will be ample opportunities for ice-breaking and events to facilitate your connections with others. I also learned that staying true to yourself is essential. With such a diverse array of individuals throughout the course and university, you will certainly meet people who resonate with you.
An additional challenge was managing the workload and the complexity of the material. There was undoubtedly a significant increase from A-levels, and in certain respects, an even more considerable leap from the first term to the second. Being in such a challenging environment can affect your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel inferior. Reminding myself that everyone is facing similar challenges helped me navigate this; I can almost guarantee that if you’re confused, others are too. So, seek assistance. This may very well be the most crucial lesson to grasp in your first year. Reach out for help from your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They are genuinely invested in your success and understand the challenges students encounter. They relate to students and keep ongoing communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t really engage with the pastoral support until the end of the year, and I wish I had utilized it earlier. I mentioned making bold moves earlier – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This role helped me connect with the faculty, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous opportunities to build relationships with staff, and it’s among the best things you can do for yourself! My primary takeaway from this facet of university is to take full advantage of the support available. You can never obtain too much!
In conclusion, this year has taught me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are frequently baseless and can be mitigated by the support resources provided by staff and fellow students. It has shown me that I am never alone and how to find joy amidst stressors such as exams and deadlines.