Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, trepidation, and uncertainty regarding the future. I was on the verge of commencing my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a newcomer. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my previously timid and reserved nature was accustomed to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and plenty of enjoyment! But what insights has this year provided, and what is my current status?
A significant and early challenge I encountered was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting elements of initiating university, and if you’re a prospective student, it may be a considerable worry. On the first day of moving into my residence, a few days ahead of the term kicking off, I remained in my room all day, too daunted to go out and meet others. Today, I can assert with confidence that I’ve developed some of the best friendships here at university and in my program. I’ve established a second family at Imperial, simply by striking up casual conversations with others in comparable situations. So, what did I take away from this? I discovered that taking the plunge at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you’re not yet prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be abundant ice-breaker activities and events to facilitate connections with others. I also found that authenticity is paramount. With so many diverse individuals across the program and university, you’re sure to discover like-minded peers.
Another hurdle was the intensity of the workload and complexity of the material. There was undoubtedly a significant increase from A-levels, and in some aspects, an even bigger jump from the first term to the second. Being in such a setting can weigh heavily on your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few strategies aided me through this, one being the reminder that everyone shares the same circumstances. If something is unclear to you, I can nearly guarantee that others are uncertain as well. Therefore, don’t hesitate to ask for help. This might be the single most crucial lesson from the first year. Seek support from peers and faculty!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials are remarkable. They genuinely wish for your success and comprehend the challenges students encounter. They show empathy and maintain ongoing communication with us throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t take advantage of the pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I had utilized it earlier. I referred to taking leaps before – I ventured into one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to connect with the faculty, which holds great value. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the most beneficial things you can pursue! My primary lesson from this part of university is to capitalize on the assistance provided. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has enlightened me that feelings of anxiety, both prior to and during university, are often baseless and can be mitigated through the support available from faculty and fellow students. It’s clarified that I’m never isolated and has taught me how to find joy even amidst stressors such as exams and deadlines.