Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into unfamiliar territory was not something my formerly timid and reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and plenty of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained this year, and what is my current situation?
One of the first and most intimidating obstacles was forming friendships. This is undoubtedly one of the more frightening elements of beginning university, and if you’re an incoming student reading this, it may be among your greatest worries. On my initial day of moving into my residence, a few days ahead of the term starting, I spent the whole day secluding myself in my room, too daunted to step out and meet others. However, sitting here now, I can assert that I’ve made some of the finest friends I’ve ever had, right here at this university and in this program. I’ve established a second family at Imperial, and it all commenced with casual conversations with individuals in comparable situations. So, what did I learn? I discovered that it’s always beneficial to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, fret not! There will be abundant ice-breaking chances and events to facilitate connections with others. I also realized that if you can embody one thing, be genuine. With such a diverse array of individuals across the course and the university, you’re sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another challenge was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the material. There was certainly a leap from A-levels, and in certain aspects, an even larger leap from the first term to the second. Being thrown into such an atmosphere can shake your confidence; you might witness others studying and feel inferior. A few strategies assisted me through that sentiment, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing the same challenges. If something is unclear, I can almost assure you that others are also puzzled. Therefore, seek assistance. This might be the singular most crucial lesson to absorb in your first year. Ask for help from your classmates and the faculty!
That leads me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely want you to prosper and comprehend the challenges students encounter. They relate to students and maintain open lines of communication with us throughout the year concerning our difficulties. I didn’t really utilize the pastoral support until the final part of the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. I spoke about taking risks at the beginning; I did take one by becoming a year well-being representative. This role enabled me to connect with the staff members, which is extremely beneficial. There are numerous ways to familiarize yourself with the faculty, and it’s undoubtedly one of the best actions you can take for yourself! My key takeaway from this aspect of university is to capitalize on the assistance provided to you. You can never receive too much!
In summary, this year has shown me that anxious feelings, both before and during university, are often unfounded and can be mitigated with the many support options available from staff and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never alone, and it has revealed how to have fun amid the pressures of exams and deadlines.