Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Approximately 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. Embracing the unknown was not something my previously timid and reserved self was equipped to handle. Looking back now, I perceive a year brimming with personal development, challenges, and a plethora of enjoyable experiences! But what insights has this year provided, and what is my current standing?
One of the earliest and most intimidating challenges was forging friendships. This is undoubtedly one of the more daunting aspects of commencing university, and if you’re a prospective student, it might be a significant concern for you. On my first day after moving into my accommodation, a few days prior to the start of term, I spent the entire day in my room, too daunted to step out and meet others. However, today, I can say with confidence that I’ve made some of the finest friends I’ve ever had, right here at this university and in this program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with some casual conversations with individuals in similar circumstances. So, what did I discover? I learned that it’s essential to take a risk at the beginning of the year. If you feel unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! There will be plenty of ice-breaker events to assist you in connecting with others. I also discovered that if you can embody anything, be yourself. With such a diverse array of individuals across the course and the university, you are bound to encounter those who resonate with you.
An additional challenge was the workload and the intricacy of the material. There was undeniably a significant elevation from A-levels, and in some respects, an even greater leap from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such an environment can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few factors aided me in overcoming that sensation, one being the reminder that everyone is in the same situation. If you don’t grasp something, I can nearly assure you that others are also finding it difficult. So, don’t hesitate to seek help. This might be the single most vital lesson to take away from the first year. Seek assistance from your peers and the faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials is exceptional. They genuinely care about your success and acknowledge that students face obstacles. They empathize with students and ensure ongoing communication with us throughout the year regarding our challenges. 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 previously mentioned about taking risks – I took one at the start of the year by becoming a well-being representative for the year. This role enabled me to familiarize myself with the staff members, which is incredibly valuable. There are numerous ways to connect with staff, and it’s definitely one of the best actions you can take for yourself! My primary takeaway from this aspect of university is to capitalize on the assistance available. You can never receive too much!
Overall, this year has taught me that anxious feelings, both prior to and during university, are often unwarranted and can be alleviated through the numerous support options offered by staff and fellow students. It has shown me that I am never alone and how to find joy amid stressors like exams and deadlines.