Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and ambiguity about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Embracing the unfamiliar was not something my previously timid and reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained this year, and what is my current situation?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was making friends. This is undoubtedly one of the more daunting elements of commencing university, and if you’re perusing this as a potential student, it likely tops your list of concerns. On my first day moving into my housing, a few days prior to the beginning of term, I spent the entire day sequestered in my room, too apprehensive to step out and meet others. However, sitting here now, I can affirm that I’ve cultivated some of the finest friendships I’ve ever experienced, here at this university and within this course. I’ve built a second family at Imperial, and it all took was a bit of casual conversation with others in similar situations. So, what has been my lesson? I discovered that taking a risk at the outset of the year is always advantageous. If you don’t feel entirely prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker activities and events to facilitate your connection with others. I also learned that if there is one thing to be, it’s yourself. With such a diverse array of individuals across the course and university, you’re sure to find others who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was the workload and the complexity of the material. There was undoubtedly a noticeable increase from A-levels, and in certain respects, an even more significant jump from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such an environment can weigh heavily on your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inferior. A few strategies aided me in overcoming that sensation, one being the reassurance that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you’re struggling to grasp a concept, I can almost assure you that others are too. So, seek assistance. This might just be the most crucial lesson to grasp in your first year. Ask your peers and the staff for help!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely desire for you to thrive and understand that students encounter difficulties. They empathize with students and maintain ongoing communication with us throughout the year regarding our challenges. I didn’t really tap into the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking risks before – I took a significant one at the year’s beginning by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This role enabled me to forge connections with staff members, which is incredibly beneficial. There are many avenues to familiarize yourself with faculty, and it’s undoubtedly one of the most advantageous actions you can take for yourself! My primary takeaway from this dimension of university life is to seize the assistance that’s available to you. You can never have an excess of support!
On a broader scale, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both in the lead-up to and during university, are nearly always baseless and can be mitigated by the vast array of support options accessible from staff and fellow students. It has taught me that I’m never alone, and it has revealed to me how to find joy even amidst sources of stress such as exams and deadlines.