Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain regarding the future as I prepared to embark on my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Embracing the unknown was not something my previously reserved self was used to. Looking back, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and a lot of enjoyment! What insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This often weighs heavily on the minds of new university students. On my initial day in my accommodation, just prior to the term starting, I spent the entire day in my room, too fearful to step outside and meet new faces. Now, I can say with certainty that I’ve built some of the best friendships here at university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all commenced with light conversation with others in similar circumstances. The takeaway? Take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you’re not ready, that’s okay! There are numerous ice-breakers and events designed to facilitate connections with others. Be authentic, and you’ll discover like-minded individuals.
Another obstacle was the volume of work and complexity of the material. There was a clear increase from A-levels, and an even greater jump from the first to the second term. Being in such a setting can challenge your confidence; you may feel insufficient in comparison to others. Keep in mind, everyone is experiencing the same situation. If you don’t grasp something, it’s likely that others don’t either. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This is essential in your first year. Reach out to peers and faculty!
The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the challenges students encounter. They remain in contact with us throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until later, but I regret not doing so earlier. I stepped up by becoming a year well-being representative, which provided me a chance to engage with staff members, a greatly beneficial opportunity. There are many ways to connect with faculty, and it’s one of the finest things you can do for yourself. Utilize the available support; you can never have too much!
This year has illustrated to me that the apprehension tied to university is often misplaced and can be diminished with the support that is available from faculty and peers. I’ve realized that I’m never alone and have learned to enjoy myself despite the pressures of exams and deadlines.