Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly ten months ago, in October 2022, I felt apprehensive and uncertain about what lay ahead as I geared up to embark on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my previously shy and reserved nature was accustomed to. Looking back on the previous academic year, I perceive a path brimming with personal development, hurdles, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
One of the primary and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This is frequently one of the most anxiety-inducing aspects of commencing university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may rank among your foremost worries. On my initial day of settling into my residence, a few days ahead of the start of classes, I spent the whole day cloistered in my room, too daunted to venture out and introduce myself to others. Today, I can proudly state that I’ve forged some of the finest friendships I’ve ever had at this university and within this program. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all commenced with casual conversations with individuals in comparable circumstances. So, what have I discovered? I learned that taking risks at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you’re not feeling prepared or comfortable, don’t fret! There will be plenty of ice-breaking occasions and events to assist you in connecting with others. I also grasped that being authentic is essential. Given the many diverse individuals across the course and university, you are sure to find those who share your perspective.
Another obstacle was the demanding workload and the complexity of the material. There was indeed a noticeable elevation from A-levels, and in some respects, an even larger jump from the first term to the second. Being placed into such a landscape can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might observe other students studying and feel inferior. A couple of factors aided me in overcoming this sentiment, one being the reminder that everyone is navigating similar experiences. If something isn’t making sense, I can nearly assure you that others are grappling with it too. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek help. This may be the most crucial lesson to embrace in your first year. Reach out to your classmates and the faculty for support!
This introduces my next point. The faculty in Materials are remarkable. They are invested in your success and comprehend the challenges students endure. They relate to students and engage in ongoing communication regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral care until the year’s end, but I wish I had utilized it sooner. I spoke of taking risks earlier – I took one by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position enabled me to connect with the faculty, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous avenues to engage with the staff, and it’s one of the best choices you can make for yourself! My primary takeaway from this facet of university is to fully leverage the assistance available. You can never have an excess of support!
In conclusion, this year has enlightened me that feelings of anxiety, both prior to and during university, are frequently baseless and can be mitigated with the various support systems provided by faculty and fellow students. It has revealed to me that I am never isolated and has taught me how to relish my experiences despite pressures such as examinations and deadlines.