Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was preparing to commence my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was not something my once shy and reserved self was familiar with. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
One of the primary and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting parts of starting university, and if you’re a prospective student, it might be one of your largest concerns. On the first day of moving into my accommodation, mere days before the term started, I spent the whole day hiding in my room, too fearful to venture out and meet others. Today, I can confidently affirm that I’ve built some of the most rewarding friendships here at the university and in my program. I’ve established a second family at Imperial, all beginning with casual conversations with others in similar situations. So, what have I discovered? I’ve realized that taking a risk at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be a plethora of ice-breaking opportunities and events designed to help you interact with others. I’ve also come to understand that if you can be anything, be yourself. With so many diverse individuals throughout the course and university, you’re sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was the workload and the difficulty of the content. There was a noticeable increase from A-levels, and in some respects, an even larger leap from the first term to the second. Being thrown into such an environment can be a challenge for your self-esteem; you may observe others studying and feel inadequate. Several factors assisted me in overcoming that sentiment, one being the reminder that everyone is in the same situation. If you don’t grasp something, I can almost assure you that others share that struggle. So, don’t hesitate to ask for help. This might be the most vital lesson to grasp in your first year. Seek assistance from your peers and the faculty!
This leads me to my next observation. The staff in Materials are extraordinary. They are invested in your success and understand the challenges students encounter. They empathize with us and keep consistent communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the support system until the end of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned previously about taking risks – I took one at the start of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which is enormously beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with staff, and it’s one of the best decisions you can make for yourself! My primary takeaway from this facet of university life is to seize the assistance available. You can never have an excess of help!
In summary, this year has enlightened me that feelings of anxiety, both prior to and during university, are frequently unfounded and can be eased with the various support avenues provided by faculty and fellow students. It has illustrated that I am never alone and taught me how to enjoy myself despite pressures such as exams and deadlines.