Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the brink of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously introverted and reserved self was used to. Looking back, I recognize a year filled with personal growth, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what have I gained from this year, and where do I stand now?
One of the first and most intimidating challenges was forging friendships. This often ranks as one of the most daunting aspects of beginning university, and if you’re a prospective student, it might be a significant worry for you. On moving day, just a few days before classes commenced, I spent the entire day in my room, too anxious to step out and introduce myself to others. Today, I can proudly say I’ve forged some of the best friendships I’ve ever known, here in this university and within this program. I’ve created a second family at Imperial, and it all began with a few casual conversations with fellow students in similar circumstances. So, what did I discover? I learned that taking a leap at the beginning of the year is beneficial. If you’re not prepared or feel uneasy, don’t fret! There will be numerous opportunities and events designed to help you engage with others. I also realized that if you can embody one thing, let it be your true self. With so many diverse individuals across the program and the university, you’re sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another hurdle was the volume of work and the difficulty of the material. There was a significant leap from A-levels, and in some respects, an even larger leap from the first term to the second. Being in such a setting can impact your self-confidence; you might notice others studying and feel insufficient. A few factors aided me in overcoming that sensation, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re puzzled by something, I can nearly assure you others are as well. Therefore, don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance. This might be the most essential lesson to grasp in your first year. Seek guidance from both classmates and faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want to see you thrive and understand the challenges students encounter. They express empathy towards students and maintain ongoing communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. I mentioned taking leaps before – I took one at the start of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This role enabled me to connect with the faculty, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to interact with faculty, and it’s one of the best choices you can make for your own benefit! My primary takeaway from this aspect of university is to seize the opportunities for help that are available. You can never have too much support!
In summary, this year has illustrated to me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are often unwarranted and can be eased with the various support systems offered by faculty and fellow students. It has taught me that I’m never alone, and it has demonstrated how to find joy amidst the stresses of exams and deadlines.