Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety and doubt as I prepared to embark on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. For someone like me, who had always been somewhat introverted and quiet, facing this new chapter was quite intimidating. Looking back at the past academic year, I recognize a path of personal development, obstacles, and enjoyment. What insights have I gained, and what is my current state?
One of the first and most daunting hurdles was forming friendships. This can be one of the most daunting elements of beginning university, which may be a significant worry for prospective students. On my first day at my accommodation, right before the term kicked off, I spent the whole day in my room, too shy to introduce myself to others. Now, I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the best friendships during my time at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, all starting from casual conversations with individuals in the same boat. What did I discover? It’s beneficial to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you’re not quite ready or at ease, don’t fret! There are numerous ice-breaker activities designed to help you meet others. I also recognized that being true to yourself is essential. With such a diverse group of people throughout the course and university, you’re certain to find those who connect with you.
Another obstacle I faced was the intensity of the workload and difficulty of the material. The transition from A-levels was markedly significant, and there was an even steeper climb from the first to the second term. Being in such a competitive environment can diminish your confidence; you might feel inferior compared to your peers. What supported me was remembering that everyone faces similar challenges. If something is unclear to you, it’s likely that others are in the same boat. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This could be the key takeaway from my first year. Reach out for help from both peers and faculty!
This brings me to my next thought. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and understand the difficulties students encounter. They are compassionate and maintain open lines of communication with us regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until late in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I noted the importance of taking initiative earlier – I took a significant step by becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to engage with faculty, which is extremely valuable. There are numerous avenues to become acquainted with staff, and it’s one of the best decisions you can make for yourself! My primary takeaway is to utilize the resources available to you. You can never have too much support!
In conclusion, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness about university are often unwarranted and can be eased through the support provided by faculty and fellow students. It has demonstrated to me that I am never on my own and has taught me how to find enjoyment amid pressures like exams and deadlines.