Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was on the brink of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my formerly timid self was used to. Reflecting on the year, I recognize it has been filled with personal development, obstacles, and plenty of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
One of the initial and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This can be one of the most frightening elements of commencing university, and if you are an incoming student, it may be a significant worry. On the first day of my move-in, just days before classes commenced, I spent the whole day in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and meet others. Now, I can proudly declare that I’ve made some of the finest friends I’ve ever had here at the university and within my program. I have discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with individuals in similar predicaments. So, what did I realize? I discovered that taking a leap at the beginning of the year is beneficial. If you’re not prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaking chances and activities to assist you in connecting with others. I also learned that being authentic is crucial. With such a diverse group of people throughout the course and campus, you are sure to encounter like-minded peers.
Another obstacle was the workload and the complexity of the material. There was certainly an elevation from A-levels, and in certain respects, an even greater leap from the first term to the second. Being in such an environment can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few strategies assisted me through this, one being the acknowledgment that everyone is in the same situation. If something is unclear, I can almost guarantee that others are confused as well. Therefore, seek assistance. This could be the most vital lesson in the first year. Ask for help from your classmates and the faculty!
This brings me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely wish for you to thrive and understand the challenges students encounter. They empathize and maintain ongoing communication with us regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the latter part of the year, but I wish I had done so sooner. I spoke earlier about taking leaps – I did take a significant one by becoming a well-being representative for the year. This position helped me connect with the faculty, which is incredibly valuable. There are numerous ways to engage with the staff, and it’s one of the best decisions you can make for your well-being! My primary takeaway is to utilize the support available. You can never have too much!
Ultimately, this year has demonstrated that feelings of anxiety, both prior to and during university, are frequently unfounded and can be eased with the help provided by faculty and fellow students. It has shown me that I am never alone and how to find joy despite the pressures of exams and deadlines.