Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of commencing my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously reserved self was used to. Reflecting on the past year, I now see a time filled with personal development, challenges, and enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
One of the first hurdles was making friends. This can often be intimidating when entering university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be a worry for you. On my inaugural day moving into accommodation, I spent the whole day in my room, feeling too shy to interact with new people. Now, I can assert with confidence that I’ve formed some of the best friendships here at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, beginning with casual conversations with others facing similar circumstances. So, what have I learned? It’s advantageous to take a risk at the outset of the year. If you’re not prepared, don’t fret! There are numerous ice-breaking events designed to help you connect with others. Additionally, be authentic. With such a diverse group of individuals throughout the course and university, you’re sure to encounter like-minded peers.
Another obstacle was the workload and the complexity of the material. There was a distinct increase from A-levels, and an even steeper rise from the first to the second term. Being in such a setting can impact your self-esteem; you might feel insufficient compared to your peers. Keep in mind, everyone is in the same situation. If you’re struggling to comprehend something, it’s likely that others are as well. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This is vital to grasp during the first year. Reach out to classmates and faculty for help!
Regarding faculty, the Materials department is exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and are aware of the challenges students encounter. They show compassion and keep communication open throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t utilize the pastoral support until the year was nearly over, but I wish I had done so much earlier. I took an initiative by becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to connect with faculty, which is invaluable. There are numerous opportunities to engage with staff, and this is among the best choices you can make for yourself! My key takeaway is to capitalize on the support available. One can never have too much!
This year has shown me that feelings of anxiety regarding university are frequently unfounded and can be lessened with the available support from both staff and fellow students. I’ve realized that I’m never alone and have learned to find joy even in the midst of stress from exams and deadlines.