Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I found myself overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into unfamiliar territory was not something my previously 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, and where do I stand now?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most nerve-wracking elements of starting university, and if you’re an incoming student, it might be one of your primary worries. On my initial day settling into my accommodation, just a few days before the semester commenced, I spent the whole day sequestered in my room, too daunted to step outside and introduce myself. Now, I can proudly say I’ve built some of the greatest friendships here at university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with casual conversations with others facing similar circumstances. So, what did I discover? It’s best to take a plunge at the beginning of the year. If you feel unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! There will be numerous opportunities for ice-breaking and events to assist you in connecting with others. I also discovered that being authentic is essential. With such a diverse group of individuals across the program and university, you’re sure to encounter people with similar mindsets.
Another obstacle was the amount of work and difficulty of the content. There was certainly a rise from A-levels, and in some respects, an even greater jump from the first term to the second. Being in such a setting can undermine your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. What aided me was remembering that everyone shares the same struggles. If something doesn’t make sense, I can almost assure you others are in the same situation. So, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This may be the most vital lesson from the first year. Seek help from classmates and faculty!
This brings me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are extraordinary. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the challenges students encounter. They relate to our experiences and maintain consistent dialogue with us regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking risks earlier – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to build relationships with the faculty, which is invaluable. There are numerous ways to connect with faculty, and it’s one of the best things you can do for yourself! My main takeaway is to make the most of the resources available. You can never have too much!
In conclusion, this year has shown me that feelings of anxiety, both prior to and during university, are often baseless and can be eased with the support provided by staff and fellow students. I’ve realized I’m never isolated and discovered how to have fun despite pressures such as exams and deadlines.