Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Around ten months back, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about the future as I embarked on my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown wasn’t something my previously reserved self was familiar with. Looking back now, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyment! But what have I gained, and what is my current standing?
One of the initial and most formidable challenges was forging friendships. This can be daunting when beginning university, and if you are an incoming student, it might be a significant concern. On the very first day of moving into my accommodation, I spent the whole day in my room, too hesitant to venture out and meet new people. Presently, I can assert that I’ve formed some of the most wonderful friendships here at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, beginning with small conversations with individuals in similar situations. What did I discover? It’s essential to take a risk at the beginning of the year. If you don’t feel prepared, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker activities to facilitate connections with others. Plus, be yourself; with a myriad of diverse individuals, you’re sure to encounter those who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was the degree of workload and content complexity. There was a noticeable leap from A-levels, followed by an even sharper increase from the first to the second term. Being in such an atmosphere can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might feel inadequate in comparison to your peers. What assisted me was the reminder that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you don’t grasp a concept, others likely do not as well. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This could very well be the most crucial lesson learned in the first year. Reach out to peers and staff for support!
The faculty in Materials are remarkable. They genuinely want you to excel and are aware of students’ challenges. They show understanding and maintain open lines of communication regarding our concerns. I didn’t utilize the pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I had engaged with it earlier. I took a step forward by becoming a year well-being rep, which aided me in connecting with staff, a priceless experience. There are numerous ways to interact with faculty, and it’s one of the best choices you can make for yourself! My key insight is to leverage the assistance provided. You can never have too much support!
This year revealed to me that anxious feelings about university are frequently baseless and can be alleviated through the support accessible from faculty and fellow students. It taught me that I am never alone, and how to find joy amid the pressures of exams and deadlines.