Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding my future. I was poised to embark on my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Diving into the unknown was not something my previously timid and introverted self was accustomed to. Looking back now, I recognize a year abundant with personal development, challenges, and plenty of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained from this year, and where do I stand now?
One of the early and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is undoubtedly one of the more frightening facets of commencing university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be a major concern for you. On my first day in my accommodation, a few days prior to the start of the term, I spent the entire day secluded in my room, too daunted to step out and meet others. Today, however, I can proudly assert that I’ve forged some of the strongest friendships I’ve ever had at this university and in this program. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all began with light conversations with others in similar situations. So, what have I discovered? I found that making an effort right from the beginning is always beneficial. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be a wealth of ice-breaker chances and activities to assist you in connecting with others. I also found that if you can embody anything, be yourself. With such a diverse array of individuals throughout the program and university, you’re sure to find those who resonate with you.
An additional challenge was the workload and complexity of the material. There was certainly a noticeable increase from A-levels, and in certain respects, an even greater leap from the first term to the second. Being immersed in such an environment can sometimes hinder your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel insufficient. A few factors aided me in overcoming that sensation, one being the reassurance that everyone shares the same experience. If something escapes your understanding, I can nearly guarantee that others are grappling with it as well. So, seek assistance. This may be the most crucial lesson to take away from the first year. Reach out to your peers and the faculty!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials is exceptional. They desire your success and recognize that students face challenges. They show empathy towards students and maintain ongoing communication throughout the year concerning our concerns. I didn’t really utilize the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had done so earlier. I spoke of taking leaps before – I took one at the start of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the faculty members, which is incredibly valuable. There are numerous avenues to familiarize yourself with the faculty, and this is undoubtedly one of the best actions you can take for your own benefit! My main takeaway from this element of university is to leverage the assistance available. You can never have an excess of support!
In summary, this year has shown me that anxious feelings, both prior to and during university, are frequently baseless and can be eased through the various support systems provided by staff and fellow students. It demonstrated that I’m never alone and how to find enjoyment amidst stressors like exams and deadlines.