By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I was filled with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about the upcoming months. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unfamiliar was a daunting experience for someone who was previously shy and reserved. Looking back now, I see a year brimming with personal development, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyment! What insights have I gained over this year, and where do I find myself today?
One of the initial and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This aspect is frequently one of the most nerve-wracking when entering university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be one of your primary concerns. On the day of moving into my accommodation, a few days ahead of the term starting, I spent the entire day sequestered in my room, too afraid to step out and introduce myself. Fast forward to now, and I can proudly say I’ve forged some of the greatest friendships I’ve ever experienced, both in this university and in this course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, all sparked by casual conversations with others in similar situations. So, what have I learned? It’s essential to take that initial leap at the beginning of the year. If you’re feeling unprepared or uneasy, that’s perfectly fine! Numerous ice-breaker events and opportunities will await to assist you in connecting with others. I also discovered that if you can embody one thing, let it be your true self. With such a diverse group of individuals throughout the course and university, you are sure to encounter those who resonate with you.
Another challenge arose from the workload and the complexity of the material. There was undoubtedly a shift from A-levels, and in some respects, an even greater leap from the first term to the second. Being in such a demanding environment can certainly challenge your confidence; you might witness others studying and feel less than adequate. A few strategies helped me navigate through those feelings, one being the understanding that everyone shares the same experiences. If something confuses you, I can virtually assure you that others are equally perplexed. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This could be the most crucial lesson to grasp in your first year. Reach out for help from classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize that students face difficulties. They relate to student challenges and keep open lines of communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t really engage with the pastoral support until late in the year, but I wish I had utilized it earlier. I talked about taking leaps – I made one at the beginning of the year by volunteering as a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous avenues to familiarize yourself with faculty, and it’s one of the most advantageous actions you can take for your own benefit! My primary takeaway in this regard is to maximize the help available. You can never have too much support!
In conclusion, this year has enlightened me that anxious feelings, both before and during university, are usually unwarranted and can be eased by the support systems in place from staff and fellow students. It has shown me that I’m never truly alone, and it has taught me how to find joy even in the face of stressful situations like exams and deadlines.