Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I was filled with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was embarking on my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Diving into the unknown was not something my timid and introverted self was accustomed to. Reflecting on the past year, I recognize it has been a time rich with personal growth, obstacles, and enjoyment! But what insights did I gain this year, and what is my current situation?
One of the initial and most intimidating challenges was forming friendships. This can indeed be overwhelming when entering university, and if you’re contemplating this as a potential student, it might be a significant worry. On the first day of moving into my accommodation, a few days before the term commenced, I spent an entire day retreating to my room, daunted by the thought of stepping out and meeting new people. Now, I can proudly say that I’ve developed some of the best friendships here at university and within this program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with casual conversations with peers in similar situations. So, what did I take away? I learned that taking a chance at the beginning of the year is the best approach. If you’re feeling unprepared or uncomfortable, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker events and opportunities to connect with others. I also discovered that if there’s one thing to be, it’s yourself. With such a diverse group of individuals throughout the course and university, you’re sure to find like-minded people.
Another challenge was the sheer volume of work and the complexity of the material. There was certainly a transition from A-levels, and in many respects, an even larger leap from the first to the second term. Being placed in such a setting can have an impact on your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few strategies assisted me during that experience, one being the reminder that everyone shares the same struggles. If something isn’t clear to you, I can almost assure you that others are perplexed too. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This may be the most crucial lesson to grasp in your first year. Reach out for help from classmates and faculty!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials is outstanding. They genuinely wish for you to succeed and recognize that students often face difficulties. They show empathy towards students and keep open lines of communication regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of pastoral support until late in the year, but I wish I had tapped into it earlier. I spoke of taking leaps – I took one by stepping into the role of a well-being representative. This position facilitated my connection with faculty members, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous avenues to get acquainted with staff, and it’s undeniably one of the best decisions you can make for yourself! My primary takeaway from this aspect of university life is to fully utilize the assistance available. You can never have too much support!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of anxiety, both prior to and during university, are frequently unwarranted and can be alleviated through the support networks provided by faculty and fellow students. I learned that I’m never alone and how to find enjoyment amidst pressures such as exams and deadlines.