By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Back in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my Materials Science and Engineering degree as a freshman. Embracing the unfamiliar was not something my previously timid and reserved self was used to. Now, as I reflect on the past year, I recognize a journey of personal development, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyment! So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This often ranks among the most daunting elements of entering university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be your greatest worry. On my initial day moving into my dorm, just days prior to the start of terms, I spent the whole day in my room, too nervous to venture out and introduce myself. Today, I can proudly say I’ve made some of the closest friends I’ve ever met here at this university and through this program. I’ve found a second family at Imperial, all beginning with casual conversations with others in the same boat. What did I discover? I realized that taking a step forward at the beginning of the year is essential. If you’re not prepared or feel uneasy, don’t stress! There are numerous ice-breaking chances and events designed to facilitate connections with others. I also figured out that being authentic is vital. With such a diverse array of individuals in the program and the university, you’re sure to encounter others who think like you.
Another significant challenge was the volume of work and the difficulty of the content. There was undeniably a leap from A-levels, and an even larger transition from the first term to the second. Being in such a challenging environment can be hard on your self-esteem; seeing others study might make you feel inadequate. What helped me was keeping in mind that everyone is experiencing the same situation. If you don’t grasp something, it’s likely that others are struggling too. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This could be the most crucial lesson from my first year. Reach out for help from fellow students and faculty!
This leads me to my next observation. The staff in Materials are exceptional. They are invested in your success and understand the difficulties students encounter. They are compassionate and maintain open lines of communication regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned earlier about taking leaps – I made one by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position enabled me to establish connections with staff members, which is incredibly beneficial. There are various ways to familiarize yourself with the staff, and it’s one of the best decisions you can make for your well-being! My primary takeaway is to make the most of the assistance provided. You can never have too much support!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both before and during university, are frequently baseless and can be mitigated with the available support from staff and peers. It has taught me that I am never alone and how to find enjoyment even amid pressures like exams and deadlines.