Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Approximately ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overcome with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding the future. I was on the verge of commencing my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was not a habit my formerly timid and reserved self was familiar with. Looking back now, I acknowledge a year filled with personal development, challenges, and a great deal of joy! But what insights have I gained this year, and what is my current position?
One of the first and most formidable challenges was forging friendships. This aspect of starting university is undoubtedly one of the more daunting factors, and if you are a prospective student, it might weigh heavily on your mind. On my initial day of moving into my accommodation, just days prior to classes commencing, I spent the whole day sequestered in my room, too daunted to venture out and interact with others. Yet, as I sit here today, I can assert with confidence that I’ve formed some of the finest friendships I’ve ever experienced, both at this university and within this program. I have discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with casual conversations with individuals in similar circumstances. So, what did I discover? I realized that taking a gamble at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be myriad ice-breaker events and opportunities to assist you in connecting with others. I also learned that if there’s one thing you can be, it’s yourself. With a diverse array of individuals across the program and university, you’re sure to encounter those who resonate with you.
Another hurdle was the workload and the complexity of the content. There was indeed a significant transition from A-levels, and in some respects, an even greater transition from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such a demanding environment can weigh heavily on your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate in comparison. A few strategies aided me in overcoming that sensation, one being the acknowledgment that everyone is navigating similar challenges. If you find something perplexing, I can nearly assure you that there are others who also share that confusion. Therefore, seek assistance. This might be the most vital lesson to grasp in your first year. Reach out for help from both your peers and the staff!
This brings me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are amazing. They genuinely want you to flourish and recognize that students encounter difficulties. They relate to students and maintain steady communication with us throughout the year concerning our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned previously about taking risks – I did take one at the beginning of the year by becoming a representative for well-being. This role enabled me to become acquainted with the staff, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to connect with faculty, and it’s certainly one of the best decisions you can make for yourself! My key takeaway from this aspect of university life is to make the most of the assistance available to you. You can never have too much support!
In summary, this year has taught me that feelings of anxiety, both prior to and during university, are often unfounded and can be mitigated by the various support options offered by staff and fellow students. It has shown me that I’m never truly alone and has taught me how to enjoy myself while managing stressors such as exams and deadlines.