Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, trepidation, and uncertainty regarding what lay ahead. I was on the verge of commencing my studies in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my previously timid and reserved nature was used to. Looking back, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained this year, and what is my current status?
One of the early and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This is undoubtedly one of the more daunting aspects of starting university, and if you’re reading this as a potential student, it may be one of your greatest worries. On my first day moving into my accommodation, a few days before classes began, I spent the whole day cloistered in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and introduce myself to others. Now, I can affirm with confidence that I’ve developed some of the best friendships of my life here at this university and in this program. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and all it took was engaging in small conversations with people in similar situations. So, what did I grasp? I learned that it’s always beneficial to take a leap at the beginning of the year. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t stress! There will be ample opportunities for ice-breakers and events to assist you in connecting with others. I also found that if you can be anything, be true to yourself. With such a diverse group of individuals across the program and university, you’re sure to meet people who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was the workload and the complexity of the material. There was certainly a leap from A-level studies, and in some respects, an even more significant transition from the first term to the second. Being immersed in such an environment isn’t always easy for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel less capable. A few strategies aided me in overcoming that sensation, one being the acknowledgment that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you don’t comprehend something, I can almost guarantee that others share your confusion. So, seek assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson to take away from the first year. Don’t hesitate to ask for help from your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely desire for you to succeed and understand that students face difficulties. They empathize with students and maintain ongoing communication with us throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had utilized it earlier. I mentioned taking leaps previously – I did take one at the onset of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This role enabled me to build rapport with the staff, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to connect with faculty, and it’s undoubtedly one of the best decisions you can make for yourself! My main takeaway from this facet of university life is to fully utilize the support you’re provided. You can never receive too much assistance!
In summary, this year has illustrated to me that feelings of anxiety, both prior to and during university, are often ungrounded and can be mitigated through the diverse support options available from faculty and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never alone, and it has shown me how to find joy amidst pressures such as exams and deadlines.