Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, dread, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the brink of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my previously timid and reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I see a year full of personal development, trials, and a ton of enjoyment! But what insights did this year offer, and where do I stand now?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting parts of beginning university, and if you’re a future student, it may be a significant worry for you. On my inaugural day moving into my dormitory, a few days before the semester kicked off, I spent the whole day in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and meet others. Fast forward to today, I can proudly state that I’ve forged some fantastic friendships here at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all commenced with casual conversations with individuals in similar circumstances. So, what did I pick up? I discovered that taking a chance at the beginning of the year is essential. If you’re not prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker events to facilitate connections with others. I also discovered that authenticity is crucial. With such a wide array of people throughout the course and university, you’re sure to locate kindred spirits.
An additional challenge was the volume of work and the difficulty of the content. There was a clear transition from A-levels, and an even steeper increase from the first term to the second. Being in such a competitive environment can undermine your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel inferior. What aided me was the acknowledgment that everyone shares the same experience. If you’re struggling to grasp something, I can nearly assure you others are too. Hence, seek assistance. This could be the most vital lesson of the first year. Reach out for support from classmates and faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely wish for your success and recognize the challenges students encounter. They empathize and maintain ongoing dialogue about our concerns. I didn’t fully capitalize on the pastoral support until late in the year, but I wish I had started earlier. I mentioned taking leaps previously – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position helped me build relationships with the faculty, which is priceless. There are numerous avenues to engage with staff, and it’s one of the most beneficial actions you can take for yourself! My primary takeaway is to utilize the support available. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year demonstrated that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are often baseless and can be eased with the assistance available from faculty and fellow students. It taught me that I’m never alone and how to find joy even amidst pressures like exams and deadlines.