Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding the future. 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 timid and reserved nature was used to. Looking back, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyment! So, what insights have I gained this year, and what is my current status?
One of the foremost and most intimidating challenges I encountered was forming friendships. This is certainly one of the more daunting aspects of commencing university, and if you’re an incoming student, it might be one of your major worries. On my first day settling into my accommodation, a few days prior to the term starting, I spent the entire day tucked away in my room because I was too daunted to go out and meet others. Sitting here now, I can assertively say I’ve made some of the most incredible friends I’ve ever had, here at this university and in this program. I have developed a second family at Imperial, and all it took was starting small conversations with people in comparable situations. So, what did I discover? I found that it’s always best to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker activities and events to facilitate connections with others. I also discovered that if you can be one thing, be yourself. With so many diverse individuals across the course and university, you are sure to encounter people like you.
Another obstacle I needed to navigate was the workload and the complexity of the content. There was definitely a shift from A-levels, and in some respects, an even greater leap from the first term to the second. Being plunged into such an environment can often be challenging for your self-esteem; you might witness others studying and feel inadequate. There were a few strategies that assisted me through that sensation, one being the realization that everyone is experiencing similar struggles. If you don’t grasp something, I can almost assure you that there are at least a few others who also don’t comprehend it. So, seek assistance. This may be the single most crucial lesson to acquire in the first year. Don’t hesitate to ask 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 succeed and recognize that students face challenges. They sympathize with students and keep open lines of communication with us year-round regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking risks earlier – I did take one at the year’s start by becoming a year well-being representative. This role allowed me to connect with the staff members, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous opportunities to familiarize yourself with faculty, and it’s certainly one of the best actions you can take for yourself! My primary takeaway from this facet of university life is to make the most of the assistance you’re provided. You can never have too much support!
In broad terms, this year has enlightened me that feelings of anxiety, both leading up to and during university, are nearly always misplaced and can be eased by the variety of support options available from faculty and fellow students. It has taught me that I’m never truly alone, and it has demonstrated how to enjoy myself while managing sources of stress like exams and deadlines.