Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I found myself feeling anxious, fearful, and uncertain about what was to come. I was on the verge of beginning my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Daring to plunge into the unknown was not something my previously introverted nature was accustomed to. Reflecting now, I recognize an academic year filled with personal growth, obstacles, and a tremendous amount of enjoyment! But what insights has this year provided, and what is my current standing?
One of the earliest and most daunting hurdles I encountered was forging friendships. This undoubtedly ranks as one of the more intimidating aspects of starting university, and if you’re reading this as a prospective student, it might be one of your primary concerns. On my first day moving into my dormitory, just days before classes began, I spent a whole day sequestered in my room, overwhelmed by the thought of venturing out to meet others. Fast forward to today, and I can proudly say that I’ve formed some of the most meaningful friendships I’ve ever experienced, here at this university and within this program. I have created a second family here at Imperial, and all it took was initiating small conversations with others who were in similar situations. So, what key lesson did I glean? I realized that it’s always beneficial to take a bold step at the start of the year. If you feel slightly unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! There will be countless ice-breaker events and gatherings that will facilitate your connection with others. I also discovered that if there’s one thing to be, it’s true to yourself. With such a diverse array of individuals throughout the course and the university, you’re sure to find like-minded individuals.
Another obstacle I had to overcome was the volume of work and complexity of the material. There was certainly a shift from A-levels, and in some respects an even greater leap from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such an environment can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might observe peers studying and feel as though you don’t measure up. A couple of factors helped me navigate through that mindset, one being the reassurance that everyone shares the same struggles. If something eludes your understanding, I can almost guarantee that there are several others grappling with the same issue. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This may be the most crucial lesson to embrace during your first year. Request help from both your peers and the faculty!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in the Materials department are exceptional. They genuinely wish for your success and recognize that students face challenges. They empathize with us and maintain consistent communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully tap into the pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner. I mentioned earlier about taking leaps – I did take one at the beginning of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This role allowed me to connect with staff members, which is incredibly valuable. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and it’s undoubtedly one of the finest things you can do for yourself! My primary takeaway from this specific aspect of university life is to utilize the assistance being offered. You can’t have too much help!
Overall, this year has taught me that feelings of anxiety, both prior to and during university, are often unfounded and can be mitigated by the wide range of support options provided by staff and fellow students. It has shown me that I’m never truly alone, and it has taught me how to savor my time while managing stressors such as exams and deadlines.