Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, apprehension, and uncertainty regarding the future. I was on the brink of embarking on my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Embracing the unknown was not something my former shy and reserved self was familiar with. Looking back on the past academic year, I recognize a path of personal development, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gathered this year, and what is my current state?
One of the earliest and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This aspect is frequently one of the most daunting when starting university, and if you are an incoming student, it could be among your primary worries. On my initial day moving into the dorms, just days before classes commenced, I spent the whole day tucked away in my room, too daunted to step out and meet others. Today, I am pleased to say I have made some of the greatest friends here at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, beginning with light conversations with fellow students in similar situations. So, what have I discovered? I realized that taking risks at the start of the year is always advantageous. If you don’t feel quite prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be many ice-breaking activities and events to facilitate your interaction with others. I also learned that being true to oneself is essential. With such a diverse array of individuals in the course and university, you are sure to encounter those who resonate with you.
Another struggle was managing the workload and the complexity of the content. There was certainly a noticeable increase from A-levels, and in certain respects, an even greater jump from the first term to the subsequent one. Being immersed in such an environment can challenge your confidence; you may observe your peers studying and feel inadequate. A few strategies aided me in overcoming that sensation, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing similar struggles. If you’re confused about something, I can nearly assure you that others are as well. So, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This may be the most crucial lesson to grasp in the first year. Seek 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 are aware of the challenges faced by students. They show empathy and maintain open lines of communication regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until late in the year, but I wish I had done so sooner. I mentioned taking risks earlier – I did take one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to engage with the faculty, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to connect with faculty, and it’s one of the best things you can do for yourself! My primary takeaway from this aspect of university life is to make the most of the assistance available. You can never have too much support!
Overall, this year has demonstrated to me that feelings of nervousness, both preceding and during university, are usually baseless and can be eased by the support systems provided by staff and fellow students. It has shown me that I am never alone and how to find joy amid stressors like examinations and deadlines.