By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Back in October 2022, I found myself overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding what lay ahead. I was on the verge of embarking on my Materials Science and Engineering degree as a freshman. Plunging into the unfamiliar was not something my formerly hesitant and introverted self was accustomed to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights did this year provide, and what is my current situation?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This is undoubtedly one of the more daunting aspects of starting university, and if you’re reading this as an aspiring student, it may be one of your primary worries. On my inaugural day moving into my accommodation, just days before the semester started, I spent the entire day hidden away in my room, feeling too intimidated to step out and meet others. Thankfully, I can now confidently state that I’ve formed some incredible friendships here at this university and within this program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, all thanks to some casual conversations with others in similar situations. So, what have I learned? I’ve learned that it’s always best to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you’re not entirely prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker activities and events designed to help you connect with others. I also learned that if you can only be one thing, be yourself. With such a wide variety of people within the course and university, you’re sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another challenge was managing the workload and the complexity of the material. There was certainly a noticeable increase from A-levels, and in some respects, an even greater jump from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such an environment can be tough on your self-confidence; observing others study might make you feel inadequate. A few strategies helped me cope with that sensation, one being the reminder that everyone is navigating similar experiences. If something doesn’t make sense to you, I can nearly assure you that others are confused too. So, don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson to grasp in the first year. Seek support from your classmates and the faculty!
This brings me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials is exceptional. They genuinely want you to succeed and recognize that students encounter challenges. They show empathy toward students and maintain ongoing communication with us throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t truly utilize the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had accessed it earlier. I previously mentioned taking leaps – I took one at the year’s outset by becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to connect with the faculty members, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with staff, and it’s certainly one of the best things you can do for yourself! My key takeaway from this aspect of university life is to make the most of the assistance available to you. You can never have too much support!
In summary, this year has shown me that anxious feelings, both prior to and during university, are often unfounded and can be mitigated by the various support systems available from faculty and fellow students. It has taught me that I’m never alone, and it has revealed how to find joy amidst pressures like exams and deadlines.