Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I found myself feeling anxious, frightened, and uncertain about what lay ahead. As a first-year student, I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering. Stepping into the unknown wasn’t something my previously introverted and reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, hurdles, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current position?
One of the first and most intimidating obstacles was forging friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting parts of commencing university, and for prospective students, it might be a significant worry. On my initial day moving into my residence, just days before the semester kicked off, I spent the whole day sequestered in my room, daunted by the idea of venturing out and meeting others. Fast forward to today, and I’m pleased to say I’ve formed some of the most wonderful friendships here at this university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all commenced with casual conversations with individuals in comparable situations. So, what did I take away from this? I realized that taking initiative at the beginning of the year is crucial. If you’re feeling unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! There will be numerous opportunities to break the ice and events designed to facilitate interaction with others. I also discovered that if you can embody one trait, let it be authenticity. With such a diverse array of individuals across the program and university, you are sure to encounter those who share your interests.
The workload and complexity of the content posed another challenge. There was undoubtedly a significant shift from A-levels, and in some respects, an even larger leap from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such a setting can influence your self-esteem; you might observe peers studying and feel less capable. Several factors aided me in overcoming that sentiment, one being the reminder that everyone is in a similar position. If you’re struggling to grasp something, I can nearly assure you that others are, too. Therefore, seek assistance. This could be the most vital lesson to grasp in your first year. Don’t hesitate to ask for help from classmates and instructors!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely wish for your success and recognize that students face difficulties. They show understanding and keep open lines of communication with us throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking chances previously – I took one at the start of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This role enabled me to connect with staff members, which is immensely beneficial. There are numerous avenues to familiarize yourself with the faculty, and it’s undoubtedly one of the best decisions you can make for yourself! My primary takeaway regarding this aspect of university life is to exploit the support available to you. You can never have too much of it!
In summary, this year has illustrated to me that feelings of anxiety, both prior to and during university, are often baseless and can be eased through the various support options provided by faculty and fellow students. It has shown me that I am never truly alone, and it has revealed how to find joy amidst pressures like exams and deadlines.