Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was set to begin my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Immersing myself in the unknown was not something my formerly timid and reserved self was familiar with. Looking back now, I realize this year has been full of personal development, challenges, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights has this year imparted, and where do I stand now?
One of the primary and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is often one of the most anxiety-inducing elements of starting university, and if you’re reading this as a potential student, it may be one of your greatest worries. On my initial day moving into my residence, a few days before the semester began, I spent the whole day hiding in my room, too apprehensive to step out and meet others. Today, though, I can proudly say I’ve forged some of the best friendships I’ve ever had, right here at this university and in this program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all kicked off with casual conversations with individuals in similar situations. So, what did I discover? I realized that taking a bold step at the beginning of the year is always beneficial. If you’re not quite prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker opportunities and events to facilitate connections with others. I also learned that if there’s one thing you can be, be yourself. With such a varied group of people across the course and university, you’re sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another challenge was the intensity of the workload and the difficulty of the material. There was certainly a noticeable increase from A-levels, and in some respects, an even more significant jump from the first term to the second. Being thrown into such an environment can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. Several factors aided me in overcoming that sensation, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If something is unclear, I can almost assure you there are others who also struggle. So, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This could very well be the most crucial lesson to grasp during the first year. Reach out to your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely wish for your success and understand that students face difficulties. They empathize with us and maintain open lines of communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had done so earlier. I previously mentioned taking bold steps – I took one at the year’s start by becoming a well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the staff members, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to familiarize yourself with faculty, and it’s one of the most advantageous things you can do for yourself! My key takeaway from this aspect of university is to make the most of the support you’re provided. You can never have enough!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are frequently misplaced and can be eased through the various support options available from staff and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never alone and how to find joy despite pressures such as exams and deadlines.