Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I experienced a whirlwind of nerves, apprehension, and uncertainty regarding my future. I was on the brink of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Immersing myself in the unknown was not something my formerly shy and reserved self was familiar with. Looking back now, I perceive a year filled with personal development, challenges, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights has this year provided, and where do I stand now?
One of the primary and most intimidating obstacles was the process of making friends. This often represents one of the most daunting aspects of beginning university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be a significant worry. On my inaugural day moving into my accommodation, a few days before the semester started, I spent the whole day secluded in my room, daunted by the prospect of stepping out and introducing myself to others. Now, I can confidently assert that I’ve forged some of the best friendships I’ve ever had, both at this university and in my program. I’ve created a second family here at Imperial, and it all commenced with casual conversations with others in similar circumstances. So, what did I discover? I learned that taking a risk at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you’re not completely prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker opportunities and events to assist you in connecting with others. I also realized that being authentic is essential. With such a diverse array of people throughout the course and university, you’re sure to find like-minded peers.
Another hurdle was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the material. There was undeniably an escalation from A-levels, and in some respects, an even greater jump from the first term to the second. Being thrown into such an environment can be challenging for your self-esteem; you may observe others studying and feel insufficient. A few aspects helped me navigate that feeling, one being the reassurance that everyone is experiencing the same situation. If you’re struggling to grasp a concept, I can almost guarantee there are others who are too. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most essential lesson to grasp in your first year. Reach out to your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize the difficulties students encounter. They relate to us and ensure ongoing communication throughout the year concerning our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had engaged with it sooner. I mentioned taking risks earlier – I did take one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to connect with the faculty, which is exceedingly beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the most beneficial things you can do for yourself! My primary takeaway from this facet of university is to capitalize on the assistance available. You can never have too much support!
In conclusion, this year has enlightened me that anxious feelings, both prior to and during university, are typically unfounded and can be mitigated with the myriad support options accessible from faculty and fellow students. It’s taught me that I’m never alone and how to find joy despite stressors like exams and deadlines.