Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, trepidation, and uncertainty regarding the future. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a newcomer. Embracing the unknown was not something my formerly shy and reserved personality was used to. Looking back on the past academic year, I recognize a path of personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights did I gain, and what is my current standing?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting aspects of entering university, and if you’re a potential student reading this, it could be one of your primary worries. On my inaugural day moving into my residence, a few days prior to the start of classes, I spent the whole day secluding myself in my room, too fearful to venture out and introduce myself to anyone. Nevertheless, sitting here now, I can confidently assert that I’ve formed some of the finest friendships I’ve ever experienced, both at this university and in this program. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with peers in alike circumstances. So, what did I discover? I realized that it’s always wise to take a risk at the beginning of the year. If you’re not entirely prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be countless ice-breakers and events designed to facilitate connections with others. I also discovered that above all, be yourself. With such a diverse array of individuals in the program and university, you’re sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another challenge was the volume of work and complexity of the material. There was certainly a transition from A-levels, and in many respects, an even larger leap from the first term to the second. Being immersed in such an environment can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel less capable. A few strategies helped me through that sensation, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you don’t grasp a concept, I can nearly assure you that there are others who are equally perplexed. Therefore, do not hesitate to seek assistance. This may be the single most crucial skill to develop in your first year. Reach out for help from your colleagues and the faculty!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The personnel in Materials are remarkable. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize that students often face difficulties. They show understanding towards students and maintain ongoing communication with us regarding our concerns throughout the year. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. As I mentioned before about taking risks – I did take one at the beginning of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This role enabled me to connect with the faculty members, which is incredibly valuable. There are numerous methods to engage with staff, and it’s undoubtedly one of the best decisions you can make for yourself! My key takeaway from this aspect of university is to fully utilize the resources available to you. You can never have too much support!
All in all, this year has shown me that anxious feelings, both before and during university, are frequently unsubstantiated and can be eased through the various support avenues provided by faculty and fellow students. It has enlightened me to the fact that I am never alone and taught me how to have fun amidst stressors like exams and deadlines.