Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding the future. 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 previously introverted and reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I see a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was the task of making friends. This is often one of the most daunting elements of beginning university, and if you’re a prospective student reading this, it may be a significant worry for you. On my initial day settling into my accommodation, a few days before classes commenced, I spent the entire day cloistered in my room, too daunted to venture out and meet others. However, now I can assertively say that I’ve forged some of the best friendships I’ve ever had, here at this university and within this program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with casual conversations with others in comparable situations. So, what have I discovered? I found that taking a bold step at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you’re not completely prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker events and opportunities to help you engage with others. I also learned that if there’s one thing to be, it’s yourself. With a diverse range of individuals across the program and the university, you are sure to encounter like-minded people.
Another obstacle was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the content. There was indeed a noticeable increase from A-levels, and in some respects, an even more significant jump from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such an atmosphere can impact your confidence; you may observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few strategies helped me navigate that sentiment, one being the understanding that everyone shares the same challenges. If you don’t grasp something, I can almost assure you that others are in the same boat. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This may be the single most crucial lesson to absorb in the first year. Reach out for support from your fellow students and the faculty!
This brings me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to prosper and comprehend the difficulties students encounter. They resonate with us and keep ongoing communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t really utilize the pastoral support until the latter part of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking bold steps previously – I did take one at the beginning of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to establish rapport with the staff members, which is exceedingly beneficial. There are numerous ways to connect with faculty, and it is undeniably one of the best things you can do for yourself! My primary lesson from this aspect of university is to leverage the assistance available. You can never have too much of it!
Ultimately, this year has enlightened me that anxious feelings, both prior to and during university, are often unwarranted 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 it has demonstrated how to enjoy myself while managing stressors like examinations and deadlines.