Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding my future. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Stepping into the unknown was not something my previously introverted and reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyable moments! But what insights have I gained this year, and what is my current situation?
One of the initial and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is often one of the most daunting aspects of beginning university, and if you’re considering this path, it might be one of your primary concerns. On my first day moving into my housing, a few days prior to the start of classes, I spent the entire day sequestered in my room, too frightened to venture out and meet others. Sitting here now, I can confidently state that I’ve forged some of the best friendships of my life at this university and in this program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with simple conversations with individuals in similar situations. So, what did I discover? I learned that it’s crucial to take a risk at the beginning of the year. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t stress! There will be numerous ice-breaker opportunities and events designed to help you connect with others. I also realized that if you can embody one thing, be yourself. With such a diverse array of individuals within the course and university, you’re sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another challenge was managing the workload and the complexity of the content. The transition from A-levels was significant, and in some respects, the leap from the first term to the second was even more pronounced. Being immersed in such an environment can sometimes be daunting for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel less capable. Several factors aided me in overcoming that feeling, one being the acknowledgment that everyone is experiencing the same challenges. If you find something difficult to grasp, I can almost guarantee that there are others who feel the same way. So, don’t hesitate to seek help. This may be one of the most vital lessons to learn in your first year. Reach out to your peers and the faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty within Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to excel and recognize that students encounter difficulties. They show understanding and keep open lines of communication with us throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t really tap into the support services until late in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking risks before – I took one at the start of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This role enabled me to connect with the faculty members, which is immensely beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and it’s undoubtedly one of the best actions you can take for yourself! My key takeaway from this aspect of university is to utilize the resources and support that are available to you. You can never have too much support!
In broad terms, this year has illustrated to me that feelings of anxiety, both in anticipation of and during university, are almost always baseless and can be mitigated by the various support systems accessible from faculty and fellow students. It has shown me that I am never alone and demonstrated how to enjoy my time alongside pressures like exams and deadlines.