Penned by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about the future. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my previously reserved self was used to. Looking back, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, obstacles, and plenty of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained this year, 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 starting university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may concern you the most. On my initial day of moving into my dorm, just days before classes commenced, I spent the whole day in my room, too daunted to go out and socialize. Now, I can proudly state that I’ve developed some of the greatest friendships here at university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, all stemming from initiating small discussions with those in similar circumstances. So, what did I take away from this? I discovered that taking risks at the onset of the year is always preferable. If you’re feeling unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker events to assist in establishing connections with others. I also realized that embracing your true self is crucial. With such a diverse array of individuals across the department and campus, you are bound to encounter those who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was the sheer volume of work and the complexity of the material. There was a noticeable leap from A-levels, and in some respects, an even larger leap from the first term to the second. Being in such a setting can impact your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few things aided me through this, one being the reminder that everyone shares the same experience. If you are struggling with something, I can almost assure you that others are too. So, don’t hesitate to seek help. This might be the most critical lesson to grasp in your first year. Reach out to your peers and the faculty for assistance!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are amazing. They genuinely want you to thrive and understand the challenges that students encounter. They empathize with students and keep in constant communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had utilized it earlier. I mentioned taking risks before – I took one at the year’s start by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to build relationships with the faculty, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the most advantageous things you can do for yourself! My primary takeaway from this aspect of university is to make the most of the support available. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has illustrated to me that feelings of anxiety, both prior to and during university, are commonly unfounded and can be eased with the support options accessible from faculty and fellow students. It has shown me that I’m never alone and how to find enjoyment despite pressures like exams and deadlines.