Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
In October 2022, ten months prior, I was consumed by nerves, anxiety, and uncertainty regarding what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unfamiliar wasn’t something my previously shy and introverted self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and a fair share of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
One of the first and most overwhelming obstacles was forging friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting parts of embarking on university life, and if you are a prospective student reading this, it might be one of your primary worries. On my inaugural day of moving into my residence, a few days before classes started, I spent the whole day secluded in my room, too anxious to venture out and meet others. However, writing this now, I can proudly state that I’ve cultivated some of the best friendships I’ve ever had, both at this university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all commenced with a bit of casual conversation with people in similar situations. So, what did I discover? I found that taking a chance at the beginning of the year is crucial. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t stress! There will be numerous ice-breaking activities to facilitate connections with others. I also realized that if you can embody one thing, it should be authenticity. With such a diverse group of people throughout the course and university, you’re bound to encounter those who resonate with you.
Another hurdle was the workload and the complexity of the material. There was undoubtedly an escalation from A-levels, and in certain respects, an even more significant jump from the first term to the second. Being thrown into such a setting can shake your confidence; you might see peers studying and start feeling insufficient. A few strategies helped me manage this feeling, one being the reminder that everyone is navigating similar challenges. If something is unclear, I can almost assure you that there are others who are equally puzzled. So, seek assistance. This may be the most critical skill to cultivate in your first year. Reach out to your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty within Materials are outstanding. They genuinely wish for your success and comprehend the challenges students encounter. They show empathy and maintain open lines of communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I did not make full use of the pastoral support until the year’s conclusion, but I wish I had embraced it earlier. I previously mentioned taking leaps – I took one at the year’s start by becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to familiarize myself with the staff, which is extremely beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and this is one of the greatest favors you can do for yourself! My primary takeaway from this facet of university life is to leverage the available support. You can never have too much!
On the whole, this year has shown me that the anxious feelings, both before and during university, are often unfounded and can be mitigated by the various support systems in place from staff and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never alone and how to find enjoyment even amidst stressors such as exams and deadlines.