Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I found myself anxious, fearful, and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of commencing my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my previously timid and introverted nature was used to. Reflecting on the past year, I recognize it has been filled with personal development, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This can often be one of the most daunting elements of starting university, and if you’re an incoming student, it could be your primary concern. On my initial day of moving into my dormitory, just days before classes commenced, I remained in my room the entire day, feeling too daunted to go out and introduce myself to others. However, today I can proudly say that I have cultivated some of the greatest friendships throughout my time at the university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, which all started with casual conversations with others in similar circumstances. So, what have I learned? It’s vital to take a leap at the beginning of the year. If you’re not prepared or at ease, that’s alright! There will be countless opportunities for ice-breakers and events to assist you in connecting with others. I also realized that if there’s one thing to embrace, it’s being yourself. With such a diverse range of individuals in the program and university, you’re certain to encounter those who resonate with you.
Another significant challenge was managing the workload and complexity of the material. The jump from A-levels was notable, and there was an even larger transition 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 inadequate. A few things helped me navigate this feeling, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing similar struggles. If you find something difficult to grasp, I can almost assure you that others are facing the same issue. So, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. This could be the most crucial lesson learned in your first year. Seek assistance from your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize that students face difficulties. They are empathetic towards us and maintain ongoing communication throughout the year regarding our challenges. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until late in the year, but I wish I had acted on it earlier. I mentioned previously about taking leaps – I took one at the beginning of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to connect with the faculty, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and it is one of the best things you can do for yourself! My primary takeaway from this aspect of university is to embrace the support available. You can never have too much assistance!
In summary, this year has revealed to me that anxious feelings, both before and during university, are frequently unjustified and can be alleviated through the support systems provided by faculty and fellow students. It has demonstrated that I am never alone and taught me how to find joy even amidst pressures like exams and deadlines.