Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Around ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding the future. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. For someone who had previously been shy and reserved, venturing into the unknown was not something I was used to. Looking back now, I note a year filled with personal development, challenges, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what lessons has this year provided, and what is my current state?
One of the first and most intimidating challenges was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting parts of beginning university, and if you’re a future student, it may be a significant worry for you. On my initial day moving into my accommodation, just a few days before classes commenced, I confined myself to my room, feeling too daunted to go out and meet others. Today, however, I can proudly say I have forged some of the best friendships here at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with others in similar scenarios. So, what did I take away from this experience? I learned that taking a risk at the beginning of the year is essential. If you don’t feel quite ready or at ease, do not stress! There will be plenty of ice-breaker activities to assist you in making connections. I also realized that being authentic is vital. With such a varied array of individuals across the course and the university, you are sure to encounter those who connect with you.
Another hurdle was dealing with the workload and the complexity of the content. There was a clear advancement from A-levels, and in some respects, an even greater leap between the first and second term. Being placed in such a setting can be challenging for your self-esteem; you may observe others studying and feel insufficient. A few strategies helped me navigate this feeling, one being the awareness that everyone is facing the same challenges. If you don’t grasp something, I can nearly assure you that others are struggling too. So, seek help. This may be the most critical skill to cultivate in your first year. Don’t hesitate to reach out to peers and faculty!
This brings me to my next point. The faculty in Materials is outstanding. They genuinely want you to thrive and are aware of the difficulties students encounter. They empathize with us and keep open communication throughout the year concerning our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had sooner. I brought up earlier about taking risks – I made one at the start of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to engage with faculty members, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to connect with staff, and it’s one of the best things you can do for your own benefit! My primary lesson from this aspect of university life is to utilize the assistance available. You can never have too much support!
In summary, this year has taught me that feelings of anxiety, both before and during university, are often baseless and can be mitigated with the support resources provided by staff and fellow students. It has illustrated that I am never alone and taught me how to have fun despite pressures like exams and deadlines.