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 about to embark on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my formerly timid and reserved self had experienced. Looking back now, I recognize a year abundant with personal development, challenges, and enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
One of the first and most intimidating obstacles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most anxiety-inducing components of starting university, and if you are an incoming student, it may be your primary worry. On my first day of settling into my accommodation, a few days ahead of the semester, I spent the entire day in my room, too hesitant to step out and interact with others. Today, I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve had, right here at this university and within this program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all commenced with casual conversations with others facing similar circumstances. So, what did I learn? It’s advisable to take that initial leap at the beginning of the year. If you’re feeling unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaking activities designed to assist you in engaging with others. Additionally, if you can embody anything, be your true self. With such a wide range of individuals across the program and university, you’re sure to encounter those who share your interests.
Another hurdle I faced was the intensity and complexity of the workload. There was a significant transition from A-levels, and even more so from the first term to the second. Being in such a setting can be challenging for your self-esteem; you may see classmates studying and feel insufficient. What helped me was the realization that everyone is experiencing similar situations. If you find something confusing, I can almost assure you that others are too. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This could be the most vital lesson from the first year. Ask for help from your peers and faculty!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize the challenges that students encounter. They empathize and keep open lines of communication regarding our concerns. I didn’t utilize the pastoral support until the conclusion of the year, but I regret not reaching out sooner. I spoke of taking leaps – one I took was becoming a wellness representative for my year. This position helped me connect with faculty members, which is invaluable. There are numerous ways to engage with the staff, and it’s among the best choices you can make for yourself! My primary takeaway is to fully utilize the assistance available. You can never have too much support!
In summary, this year has illustrated that feelings of anxiety, both before and during university, are often unfounded and can be eased with the support available from faculty and fellow students. It has demonstrated to me that I am never alone and has taught me how to find enjoyment even amidst pressures like exams and deadlines.