Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Back in October 2022, ten months ago, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. As a first-year student about to embark on my degree in Materials Science and Engineering, the thought of venturing into the unknown was daunting for my previously introverted self. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with significant personal development, obstacles, and joys. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current position?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles I faced was forging friendships. This is often a major source of anxiety for those beginning university, and if you’re an incoming student reading this, it may weigh heavily on your mind. On my initial day of moving into my dorm, just days before classes started, I spent the whole day sequestered in my room, too nervous to venture out and meet others. However, today, I can proudly state that I have formed some of the greatest friendships of my life, both at this university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all commenced with casual conversations with peers in similar circumstances. So, what have I learned? I’ve realized that taking a risk at the start of the year is invariably advantageous. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaking activities to foster connections with others. I also discovered that being true to yourself is essential. With such a diverse mix of individuals throughout the program and the university, you are certain to find those who resonate with you.
An additional challenge was the volume of work and the complexity of the coursework. There was a clear escalation from A-levels, and an even more significant transition from the first term to the second. Being in such an atmosphere can be tough on your self-esteem; you might witness others studying and feel insufficient. What aided me in navigating this was the reminder that everyone experiences similar struggles. If you’re grappling with something, I can nearly assure you that others are, too. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This may be the most vital lesson to derive from your first year. Reach out for help from classmates and faculty!
This leads me to my following point. The faculty in Materials is outstanding. They are genuinely invested in your success and are aware of the challenges students encounter. They understand our concerns and remain in constant touch throughout the year regarding our difficulties. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until the final stages of the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. I mentioned the importance of taking risks earlier – I took one by becoming a year wellbeing representative. This position enabled me to connect with faculty members, which is invaluable. There are numerous ways to familiarize yourself with the staff, and it stands out as one of the best things you can do for yourself! My key takeaway from this facet of university is to make the most of the assistance available. You can never have too much support!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both before and during university, are frequently unfounded and can be mitigated with the array of support options provided by staff and fellow students. It has reinforced that I’m never isolated and has taught me how to find enjoyment even amidst pressures like exams and deadlines.