Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety and uncertainty regarding my future. I was on the brink of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was a challenge for my previously reserved self. Looking back, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and enjoyment. But what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This is frequently one of the most frightening parts of commencing university, and if you are an incoming student, it may be a major worry for you. On my initial day moving into my residence, days before the semester commenced, I spent the whole day confined to my room, too daunted to step outside and interact with others. Fast forward to today, I can boldly claim that I’ve cultivated some of the most meaningful friendships during my time at the university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all started with casual conversations with others in similar circumstances. So, what did I discover? I learned that taking a chance at the start of the year is vital. If you’re not feeling up to it or at ease, don’t fret! There will be an abundance of ice-breaker activities to assist you in connecting with others. I also realized that being authentic is essential. With such a rich diversity of individuals across the program and the university, you are sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the material. There was a palpable leap from A-levels, and even more when transitioning from the first to the second term. Being in such a setting can severely impact your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. What assisted me was the reminder that everyone is navigating the same waters. If you don’t grasp something, I can almost assure you others don’t either. So, do not hesitate to ask for assistance. This may be the most critical lesson for the first year. Seek support from fellow students and faculty!
This segues into my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the hurdles students encounter. They show empathy and maintain ongoing communication with us throughout the entire year. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had done so sooner. I mentioned taking risks earlier – I took one by stepping into the role of a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to establish connections with faculty members, which is invaluable. There are numerous ways to familiarize yourself with staff, and it’s among the best things you can do for yourself! My key takeaway is to make the most of the support provided. You can never have too much assistance!
In summary, this year has revealed to me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are frequently baseless and can be mitigated through the diverse support available from faculty and fellow students. It has shown me that I am never alone and has guided me on how to find joy even amidst pressures such as exams and deadlines.