Authored 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 about to start my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Leaping into the unknown was not something my previously reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year full of personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what have I discovered, and what is my current situation?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is often one of the most daunting parts of commencing university, and if you’re a future student, it might be a significant worry. On my initial day moving into my accommodation, just days ahead of the term starting, I spent the entire day in my room, too afraid to venture out and meet new people. Today, however, I can proudly state that I’ve forged some of my closest friendships here at university and within my program. I’ve found a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with light conversation with others going through similar experiences. So, what did I discover? I learned that taking a chance at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you’re feeling unprepared or uneasy, don’t stress! There will be ample ice-breaking events to assist you in connecting with others. I also learned that being authentic is essential. With so many diverse individuals in the course and university, you’re sure to find like-minded peers.
Another challenge involved managing the workload and the complexity of the material. There was certainly a noticeable increase from A-levels, and in some respects, an even larger jump from the first term to the second. Being in such an environment can be tough on your self-esteem; you may observe others studying and feel inferior. What helped me was remembering that everyone is navigating similar challenges. If you find something hard to grasp, I can nearly assure you that others are struggling too. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This may be the most vital lesson of the first year. Reach out for support from classmates and faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the difficulties students encounter. They show empathy and keep an ongoing dialogue with us regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. I mentioned earlier about taking leaps—I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which is immensely valuable. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the best things you can do for yourself! My primary takeaway from this part of university is to leverage the support provided. You can never have too much!
Overall, this year has shown me that feelings of anxiety, both prior to and during university, are often unfounded and can be mitigated with the various support options accessible from faculty and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never alone and how to relish experiences even amid stressors like exams and deadlines.