By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding the future. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Jumping into such an intense experience was unfamiliar to my formerly shy and reserved self. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my situation now?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is often one of the most daunting parts of entering university, and if you are an incoming student, it might be a significant worry. On my initial day of moving into residence, a few days ahead of the semester, I spent the whole day hiding in my room, too nervous to venture out and meet anyone. However, today I can confidently say that I’ve made some of the most amazing friends here at university and within my program. I’ve built a second family at Imperial, all initiated through brief conversations with others in comparable situations. So, what did I discover? I learned that taking risks at the beginning of the year always pays off. If you’re not ready or don’t feel at ease, don’t stress! There will be plenty of ice-breaker activities to assist you in engaging with others. I also realized that being authentic is crucial. With a vast array of diverse individuals throughout the course and university, you’re sure to meet like-minded people.
Another challenge was the academic workload and the complexity of the subject matter. There was indeed a notable increase from A-levels, and in certain aspects, an even larger jump from the first to the second term. Being placed into such an environment can challenge your confidence; you may observe others studying and feel less competent. A few things supported me through this, one being the acknowledgment that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you find something perplexing, I can nearly promise that others do too. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most vital lesson to grasp in your first year. Reach out for help from fellow students and faculty!
This naturally leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They are committed to your success and recognize that students encounter difficulties. They relate to us and maintain ongoing dialogue regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned earlier about taking leaps – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to connect with the faculty, which is invaluable. There are numerous ways to engage with staff, and it’s one of the best things you can do for yourself! My primary takeaway from this aspect of university is to make the most of the assistance available. You can never have too much support!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are often baseless and can be mitigated with the support provided by faculty and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never alone and how to enjoy my experience despite pressures like exams and deadlines.