Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I experienced feelings of anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of commencing my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was foreign to my once-timid and reserved nature. Looking back now, I realize the year was rich with personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment! So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the initial and most intimidating challenges was forging friendships. This certainly ranks as one of the more daunting aspects of embarking on a university journey, and if you’re considering this path as a potential student, it might be among your foremost worries. On the day I moved into my residence, just a few days before the semester kicked off, I spent an entire day secluded in my room due to my apprehension about stepping out to meet others. Yet, sitting here today, I can assertively say that I’ve formed some of the most meaningful friendships of my life at this university and within this program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, all it took was initiating casual conversations with people in similar circumstances. So, what did I learn? I discovered that beginning the year with a bold step is always beneficial. If you’re not feeling entirely prepared or at ease, don’t fret! Numerous ice-breaker activities and events are available to assist you in connecting with others. I also found that if there’s one thing you should be, it’s yourself. The diversity of individuals across the program and university ensures that you will encounter those who resonate with you.
Another challenge was managing the workload and navigating content complexity. There was unmistakably a leap from A-level studies, and in certain respects, an even larger shift from the first term to the second. Being placed in such a competitive environment can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might watch peers studying and feel inadequate. Several aspects aided me in coping with that sensation, one being the acknowledgment that everyone is facing similar struggles. If a concept is eluding you, I can almost assure you that there are several others who are equally perplexed. Thus, seeking assistance is critical. This might be the most vital lesson to grasp in your first year. Don’t hesitate to ask for support from your classmates and faculty!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The faculty in the Materials department are exceptional. They genuinely want you to succeed and recognize the challenges students face. They show understanding towards students and keep consistent communication with us throughout the year concerning our difficulties. I didn’t really engage with the pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I had made use of it earlier. I mentioned previously about taking leaps – I took one at the start of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This role allowed me to connect with the staff members, which is incredibly valuable. There are numerous avenues to engage with faculty, and it’s undoubtedly one of the smartest moves you can make for yourself! My primary lesson from this aspect of university is to leverage the support being provided. You can never have too much!
Overall, this year has imparted to me that feelings of anxiety, whether prior to or during university, tend to be unfounded and can be mitigated by the plethora of support options available from faculty and fellow students. I’ve learned that I’m never truly alone, and I’ve discovered how to find enjoyment even amidst stressors like exams and deadlines.