By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the cusp of starting my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my previously shy and introverted self was used to. Looking back over the past year, I see a path of personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was establishing friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting elements of beginning university, and if you’re an incoming student, it might weigh heavily on your mind. On my first day settling into my accommodation, a few days ahead of the term’s start, I spent the whole day confined to my room, too daunted to venture out and meet others. Now, I can genuinely say I’ve forged some of the most wonderful friendships here at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with individuals in similar situations. What did I discover? It’s advantageous to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you’re feeling unprepared or uncomfortable, do not fret! There will be ample opportunities for ice-breakers and events to assist you in connecting with others. Also, remain authentic. With such a diverse group of people across the course and university, you are sure to encounter individuals who share your interests.
Another obstacle was the volume of work and the complexity of the material. There was certainly a noticeable increase from A-levels, and a much larger jump from the first term to the second. Being in this type of environment can be challenging for your self-esteem; you may observe others studying and feel inadequate. What aided me was the reminder that everyone shares this experience. If you find something difficult to grasp, it’s likely that others do too. So, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson from the first year. Seek help from both classmates and faculty!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want to see you succeed and understand the challenges students encounter. They empathize and keep the lines of communication open regarding our struggles. I didn’t make full use of the pastoral support until late in the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. I spoke of taking leaps earlier – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which is immensely beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the best things you can do for yourself! My key takeaway is to make the most of the assistance that’s available. You can never receive too much support!
In summary, this year has demonstrated to me that feelings of anxiety, both prior to and during university, are frequently unfounded and can be mitigated by the support offered by staff and fellow students. It has revealed to me that I’m never alone and has taught me to relish my time here despite pressures such as exams and deadlines.