By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I found myself feeling anxious, afraid, and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was on the brink of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Plunging into the unknown wasn’t something my previously introverted self was used to. Reflecting on the past year, I see a journey filled with personal development, hurdles, and a lot of joy! But what insights has this year provided me, and what is my current situation?
One of the initial and most daunting challenges was forming friendships. This is undoubtedly one of the more intimidating elements of embarking on university, and if you’re a prospective student reading this, it might be one of your foremost concerns. On my first day settling into my accommodation, a few days prior to the term beginning, I spent the whole day secluded in my room because I felt too overwhelmed to go out and introduce myself to others. Sitting here today, though, I can assert that I’ve made some of the finest friends during my time at this university and in this program. I’ve developed a second family here at Imperial, and all it took was engaging in casual conversations with individuals in similar positions. So, what have I gleaned? I’ve realized that it’s always beneficial to take the plunge at the beginning of the year. If you don’t feel quite prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be countless opportunities for ice-breaking and events to facilitate your interactions with others. I also learned that if there’s one thing you should be, it’s yourself. With such a diverse array of individuals within the course and the university, you are certain to encounter like-minded people.
Another challenge was the volume of work and the complexity of the content. There was indeed a significant leap from A-levels, and in some respects, an even more substantial leap from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such an environment can be tough on your self-esteem; you might observe your peers studying and feel as though you’re not measuring up. A few things helped me navigate that sensation; one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing the same challenges as you. If something isn’t clear to you, I can almost assure you that there are at least a handful of others who also find it confusing. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson to internalize in your first year. Seek help from both your peers and the staff!
That leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials is remarkable. They genuinely want you to succeed and recognize that students face difficulties. They show understanding towards students and consistently communicate with us throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully utilize the support services until later in the year, but I wish I had started earlier. I mentioned earlier about taking leaps – I did take one at the beginning of the year by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This role allowed me to connect with the staff members, which is immensely beneficial. There are numerous avenues to familiarize yourself with the staff, and it’s unquestionably one of the best decisions you can make for your experience! My main takeaway from this aspect of university is to capitalize on the assistance available to you. You can never have too much support!
In a broader sense, this year has illustrated to me that feelings of anxiety, both in anticipation of and during university, are typically unfounded and can be alleviated through the various support options offered by staff and fellow students. It has taught me that I’m never alone, and it has shown me how to find enjoyment despite the pressures of exams and deadlines.