Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
In October 2022, ten months ago, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was preparing to embark on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Embracing the unknown was not within the comfort zone of my previously shy and introverted self. Looking back, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
One of the primary and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This aspect is frequently one of the most daunting parts of starting university, and if you are a prospective student, it may pose a significant worry for you. On my first day of moving into my accommodation, just days prior to the term kicking off, I remained in my room all day, too anxious to step out and introduce myself. Now, I can proudly state that I’ve formed some of the most wonderful friendships here at university and in my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with others in similar situations. So, what did I realize? I discovered that making an effort at the start of the year is essential. If you’re feeling unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! Numerous ice-breaker events will be available to assist you in connecting with others. I also discovered that being authentic is vital. With such a diverse range of individuals across the program and university, you are sure to encounter like-minded people.
Another challenge was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the content. There was definitely a noticeable increase from A-levels, and an even more substantial transition from the first term to the second. Being in such a demanding environment can shake your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. What aided me was the reminder that everyone is facing similar challenges. If something isn’t clear, it’s likely others are struggling too. So, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This might be the most vital skill to cultivate in your first year. Seek support from your classmates and faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the challenges students encounter. They show understanding and keep an ongoing dialogue with us regarding our concerns. I didn’t take full advantage of the support services until later in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I previously spoke about taking leaps – I made one by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which is immensely beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the best decisions you can make for yourself! My primary takeaway is to leverage the support available. You can never have too much assistance!
In summary, this year has taught me that feelings of anxiety, both before and during university, are often baseless and can be eased with the available support from faculty and fellow students. It has demonstrated that I am never alone and taught me how to find joy in the midst of pressures such as exams and deadlines.