Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Immersing myself in uncharted territory was not something my previously timid and introverted self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and enjoyment! But what insights has this year provided, and what is my current state?
One of the earliest and most formidable challenges was making friends. This is frequently one of the most daunting parts of commencing university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be a considerable worry for you. On my first day settling into housing, a few days before classes started, I spent the whole day in my room, too frightened to go out and meet others. Today, though, I can proudly say I’ve cultivated some of the most rewarding friendships here at university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with others in similar situations. So, what did I take away from this? I realized that taking a bold step at the start of the year is essential. If you’re not quite prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker activities to assist you in connecting with others. I also learned that authenticity is vital. With so many diverse individuals throughout the course and university, you are sure to encounter kindred spirits.
A further hurdle was the workload and complexity of the material. There was certainly a significant increase compared to A-levels, and in some respects, an even larger jump from the first term to the second. Being placed in such an environment can be tough on your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel insufficient. A few strategies assisted me during this time, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you don’t grasp a concept, I can almost assure you that others don’t either. So, don’t hesitate to seek help. This may be the most critical skill to cultivate in your first year. Look for support from classmates and faculty!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the challenges students face. They relate to students and maintain ongoing communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I spoke about taking leaps before – I did this by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with faculty members, which is extremely beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with staff, and it’s one of the best actions you can take for yourself! My primary lesson from this aspect of university is to seize the assistance provided. You can never have too much support!
In conclusion, this year has shown me that anxious feelings, both prior to and during university, are frequently baseless and can be eased with the supportive resources available from faculty and fellow students. It has taught me that I’m never alone and how to have fun despite stressors like exams and deadlines.