Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I felt anxious and unsure about the future. I was on the verge of beginning my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was not something my formerly reserved self was familiar with. In hindsight, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and plenty of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the first and most intimidating obstacles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most anxiety-inducing parts of beginning university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be a significant worry. On my initial day of moving into my accommodation, days before the semester started, I spent the whole day confined to my room, too daunted to step out and meet others. Now, I can proudly assert that I’ve formed some of the finest friendships here at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with light conversations with individuals in similar situations. So, what did I come to understand? It’s beneficial to take a leap at the beginning of the year. If you feel unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! There are numerous ice-breaking events designed to assist you in connecting with others. Additionally, just be yourself. With such a variety of individuals throughout the course and university, you’re sure to find those who connect with you.
Another significant challenge was the workload and the difficulty of the material. There was a clear escalation from A-levels, and an even greater jump from the first term to the second. Being in such an environment can burden your self-esteem; you might feel inadequate when compared to your peers. What aided me was recalling that everyone shares the same experience. If something is unclear to you, it’s likely unclear to others as well. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson from the first year. Reach out for help from fellow students and faculty!
This brings me to my next point. The faculty in Materials is exceptional. They are dedicated to your success and recognize the challenges students encounter. They show empathy and maintain regular communication regarding our concerns. I didn’t take advantage of pastoral care until the year’s end, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking leaps previously – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with faculty members, which is incredibly valuable. There are numerous ways to familiarize yourself with the staff, and it’s one of the best decisions you can make for yourself! My primary lesson is to utilize the assistance available. You can never receive too much help!
In conclusion, this year has shown me that anxious feelings, both prior to and during university, are often unwarranted and can be eased by the support provided by faculty and peers. It has taught me that I’m never isolated and how to find enjoyment amidst challenges like exams and deadlines.