Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding the future. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Embracing the unknown was not something my previously timid and introverted self was accustomed to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and plenty of enjoyment! But what lessons did this year impart, and what is my current status?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting aspects of beginning university, and if you’re a prospective student reading this, it might be one of your greatest concerns. On my first day moving into my residence, a few days prior to the semester starting, I spent the whole day cloistered in my room, too anxious to step out and introduce myself. Today, I can assert with confidence that I have made some of the best friends I’ve ever had at this university and in this program. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, which all began with a few casual conversations with individuals in comparable situations. So, what insight did I gain? I learned that it’s crucial to take a chance at the commencement of the year. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be ample opportunities and activities designed to help you connect with others. I also discovered that if there is one thing to be, it’s yourself. With such a diverse group of individuals throughout the program and university, you are bound to encounter people with similar interests.
Another obstacle was the intensity of the workload and the difficulty of the material. There was undoubtedly a significant transition from A-levels, and in some respects, an even greater shift from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such an environment can undermine your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel like you’re falling short. A few strategies aided me in overcoming that feeling, one being the reminder that we are all in this together. If something confounds you, I can almost assure you that others are likewise perplexed. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This may be the most crucial lesson to grasp in the first year. Reach out to your peers and faculty for support!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in the Materials department are extraordinary. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize that students face challenges. They relate to students and consistently communicate with us throughout the year about our concerns. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until the conclusion of the year, but I wish I had tapped into it earlier. I mentioned taking leaps – I made one at the onset of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which is immensely beneficial. There are numerous ways to get acquainted with faculty, and it is undoubtedly one of the best steps you can take for your benefit! My primary takeaway from this facet of university life is to capitalize on the assistance provided. You can never have too much!
Ultimately, this year has taught me that nerves, both prior to and during university, are often unfounded and can be mitigated by the multitude of support options available from faculty and fellow students. It has shown me that I am never alone and how to find enjoyment even amidst pressures such as exams and deadlines.