Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Almost a year ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of commencing my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my previously reserved self was used to. Reflecting on this past year, I recognize it has been filled with personal development, obstacles, and plenty of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained this year, and what is my current situation?
One of the initial and most intimidating challenges was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting parts of starting university, and if you’re an incoming student, it might weigh heavily on your mind. On my first day settling into my accommodation, a few days prior to the start of term, I spent the whole day in my room, too daunted to venture out and meet new people. Now, I can proudly affirm that I’ve made some of the finest friends I’ve ever had here at university and within my program. I’ve found a second family at Imperial, and it all commenced with casual conversations with others in similar circumstances. So, what did I discover? I learned that taking a risk at the beginning of the year is crucial. If you’re feeling unprepared or uneasy, don’t stress! There are numerous ice-breaking activities designed to foster connections with others. I also realized that being true to oneself is essential. With such a diverse group of individuals throughout the course and university, you are sure to meet like-minded people.
Another hurdle was the workload and the level of difficulty of the material. There was certainly a noticeable transition from A-levels, and even more so when comparing the first term to the second. Being in such a setting can influence your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inferior. A few elements assisted me through this, one being the reminder that everyone shares the same experience. If you find something confusing, I can almost guarantee others do too. So, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson to grasp in your first year. Seek support from both peers and faculty!
The faculty in Materials truly excel. They are committed to your success and are aware of the challenges students encounter. They relate to our experiences and keep open lines of communication regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until the conclusion of the year, but I wish I had started earlier. I mentioned taking chances – I took one by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position enabled me to connect with the faculty, which is invaluable. There are many opportunities to engage with staff, and it’s one of the most beneficial actions you can take for yourself! My primary lesson is to make the most of the available assistance. You can never have excessive support!
In summary, this year has demonstrated to me that feelings of anxiety, both before and during university, are often baseless and can be mitigated through the support provided by staff and fellow students. It has shown me that I am never alone and taught me how to have fun despite pressures such as exams and deadlines.