Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I was filled with anxiety and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the brink of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Embracing something new was not something my formerly reserved self was used to. Reflecting on the past year, I recognize a journey teeming with personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what lessons did I glean from this year, and where do I stand now?
One of the initial and most intimidating obstacles was forming friendships. This often stands as one of the most nerve-wracking aspects of embarking on university, and for those of you contemplating it, it may be a significant worry. On my first day of moving into accommodation, just days before classes commenced, I spent the entire day confined to my room, too daunted to venture out and socialize. Today, I can proudly say I’ve made some incredible friends at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with others in similar situations. So, what insight did I gain? It’s beneficial to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you don’t feel prepared, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker events to assist you in connecting with others. Furthermore, just be authentic. With so many diverse individuals across the course and campus, you are sure to encounter like-minded peers.
Another hurdle was the intensity of the workload and the difficulty of the material. There was a clear leap from A-levels and an even more significant transition from the first term to the second. Being in such a setting can influence your self-esteem; you may feel inadequate in comparison to your peers. Keep in mind, everyone is experiencing the same challenges. If you find something perplexing, chances are others do too. Therefore, do not hesitate to seek help. This is vital to grasp in your first year. Reach out for guidance from classmates and faculty!
Speaking of faculty, the Materials department is excellent. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the challenges faced by students. They show understanding and maintain dialogue with us throughout the year regarding our issues. I only utilized the pastoral support at the year’s end, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. I referenced taking leaps previously – I took one by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position allowed me to connect with faculty members, which is immensely beneficial. There are numerous avenues to engage with staff, and it’s one of the most beneficial things you can do for yourself! My primary lesson is to seize the opportunities for help provided. You can never have too much support!
All in all, this year has demonstrated to me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are frequently baseless and can be mitigated with the support provided by staff and fellow students. I’ve discovered that I am never alone and how to find joy even amidst the pressures of exams and deadlines.