Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I felt anxious, fearful, and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of commencing my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Diving into the unknown wasn’t something my previously shy and reserved nature was used to. Reflecting now, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment! So, what lessons has this year imparted, and what is my current situation?
One of the initial and most intimidating obstacles I confronted was forming friendships. This is undoubtedly one of the more daunting elements of starting university, and if you are a prospective student reading this, it might be among your greatest concerns. On my inaugural day of moving into my accommodation, a few days ahead of the term’s commencement, I spent the whole day secluded in my room, too intimidated to venture out and meet others. Yet, sitting here now, I can assert with confidence that I’ve forged some of the finest friendships I’ve ever experienced, here at this university and within this program. I have built a second family at Imperial, and it all began with engaging in casual conversations with others in similar situations. So, what’s the takeaway? I discovered that it’s always wise to take risks at the beginning of the year. If you feel somewhat unprepared or uneasy, do not fret! There will be ample opportunities for ice-breakers and events to assist you in connecting with others. I also found that if you can embody one thing, be true to yourself. With such a wide range of diverse individuals throughout the course and the university; you are sure to encounter people who resonate with you.
Another challenge I needed to navigate was the coursework and difficulty of the material. There was certainly a noticeable elevation from A-levels, and in certain respects, a much larger leap from the first to the second term. Being immersed in such an environment isn’t always conducive to maintaining confidence; you may observe others studying and feel inadequate by comparison. A few strategies helped me navigate that sensation, one being the reminder that everyone is in the same position as you. If you are struggling to grasp a concept, I can almost ensure that there are several others who are experiencing the same challenge. Therefore, seek assistance. This may be the single most crucial skill to acquire in your first year. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help from your peers and the faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The staff in the Materials department are exceptional. They are invested in your success and recognize the struggles that students face. They show empathy towards students and maintain consistent communication with us throughout the year regarding our challenges. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned earlier about taking risks – I did take one at the beginning of the year by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This role allowed me to connect with the faculty, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to familiarize yourself with the staff, and it is certainly one of the best decisions you can make for your own benefit! My main lesson from this aspect of university life is to seize the opportunities for support that are provided to you. There’s no such thing as too much help!
Overall, this year has taught me that feelings of anxiety, both in anticipation of and during university, are nearly always baseless and can be mitigated through the extensive support available from both staff and fellow students. It has shown me that I am never alone, and it has taught me how to have fun alongside the stressors such as exams and deadlines.