Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my previously reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I can see a year filled with personal development, hurdles, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the earliest and most intimidating challenges was establishing friendships. This is frequently one of the most frightening elements of commencing university, and if you are an incoming student, it may be a significant worry for you. On my first day moving into my accommodation, just a few days before the semester started, I spent the whole day in my room, too fearful to step out and introduce myself. Now, I can proudly say I’ve developed some of the best friendships I’ve ever had, right here at this university and within this program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all commenced with casual conversations with individuals in comparable situations. What did I take away from this? It’s advisable to take a risk at the beginning of the year. If you don’t feel ready or at ease, there’s no need to fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker activities and gatherings to aid you in connecting with others. Additionally, remember, if you can be one thing, be yourself. With the diversity of individuals across the program and the university, you are sure to encounter those who resonate with you.
Another hurdle was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the content. There was undoubtedly a noticeable increase from A-levels, and in certain aspects, an even steeper learning curve from the first term to the second. Being in that environment can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel like you’re falling behind. A few factors aided me in overcoming that feeling, one being the realization that everyone shares that experience. If you are struggling to comprehend something, I can almost assure you that others are as well. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson of the first year. Reach out for help from your peers and the faculty!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize that students face challenges. They are empathetic and maintain open lines of communication regarding our concerns. I didn’t utilize the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner. I talked about taking risks – I took one at the start of the year by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This role allowed me to familiarize myself with the faculty, which is immensely beneficial. There are many avenues to connect with the faculty, and it’s among the best decisions you can make for your well-being! My key insight is to fully utilize the support provided. You can’t have too much help!
In summary, this year has revealed to me that feelings of anxiety, both prior to and during university, are often baseless and can be mitigated through the support offered by faculty and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never alone and how to find joy even amidst pressures such as exams and deadlines.