Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was filled with anxiety and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a fresh student. Venturing into the unknown was not a situation my previously reserved self was familiar with. Reflecting on this past year, I recognize it was marked by personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my situation now?
One of the foremost and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This can be one of the most daunting parts of beginning university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be a significant worry. On my first day of moving into my residence, just days before classes started, I spent an entire day sequestered in my room, too fearful to venture out and meet new people. Now, I can proudly say I have developed some of the finest friendships here at university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, beginning with light conversations with others in similar positions. So, what did I realize? It’s crucial to embrace opportunities at the start of the year. If you’re not prepared or feel uneasy, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker activities designed to help you interact with others. I also came to understand that being authentic is essential. With such a variety of individuals in the program and at the university, you’re sure to encounter those who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was the volume and difficulty of the coursework. There was a noticeable increase in challenge from A-levels, and an even more significant jump from the first term to the second. Finding oneself in such a setting can be challenging for your self-esteem; you may feel insufficient when comparing yourself to peers. What supported me was the realization that everyone is experiencing similar situations. If something is unclear to you, it’s likely that it is for others as well. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This lesson is possibly the most crucial during the first year. Reach out to both fellow students and staff for help!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely want you to succeed and understand the challenges that students encounter. They show empathy and keep open lines of communication with us regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until late in the year, but I regret not doing so earlier. I spoke of taking leaps previously – I took one by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which is priceless. There are multiple avenues to establish connections with faculty, and it’s one of the most beneficial actions you can take for yourself! My primary lesson is to capitalize on the assistance available. One can never have too much support!
In conclusion, this year has revealed to me that feelings of apprehension, both prior to and throughout university, often lack justification and can be mitigated through the support offered by staff and fellow students. It has shown me that I am never isolated and how to enjoy myself even in the face of pressures such as exams and deadlines.