Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, apprehension, and uncertainty regarding what lay ahead. I was on the brink of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a newcomer. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my previously timid and reserved self was accustomed to. Looking back now, I recognize a year abundant with personal development, hurdles, and enjoyment. But what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself today?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This often ranks as one of the most daunting elements of commencing university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be a significant worry for you. On the day I moved into my accommodation, a few days prior to the start of classes, I spent the entire day in my room, too intimidated to venture out and meet others. Currently, I can proudly say I’ve established some of the finest friendships here at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, beginning with casual conversations with individuals in similar situations. So, what did I discover? I learned that taking a risk at the onset of the year is essential. If you’re not entirely prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There are numerous ice-breaker activities designed to aid you in connecting with others. I also realized that authenticity is crucial. With such a diverse population at the university, you’re sure to encounter those who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was the volume of work and complexity of the material. There was a marked increase from A-levels, and even more so from the first to the second term. Being in such a setting can shake your confidence; you might observe peers studying and feel insufficient. What aided me was recalling that everyone shares the same experience. If you don’t grasp something, it’s likely that others don’t either. Therefore, seek assistance. This might constitute the most vital lesson of the first year. Don’t hesitate to ask for support from classmates and faculty!
This brings me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the challenges students encounter. They show understanding and maintain open lines of communication regarding our worries. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the conclusion of the year, but I regret not doing so sooner. I referred to taking risks earlier – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to build connections with staff members, which is priceless. There are numerous avenues to engage with faculty, and it’s among the best choices you can make for yourself! My primary takeaway is to leverage the assistance provided. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has revealed to me that feelings of anxiety, both before and during university, are often baseless and can be mitigated with the support accessible from faculty and fellow students. It has demonstrated that I’m never alone and has taught me how to find joy amid the pressures of exams and deadlines.