By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, back in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, apprehension, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously timid and reserved self was familiar with. Looking back on the past academic year, I recognize a path of personal development, obstacles, and plenty of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained this year, and what is my current status?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles I encountered was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most frightening elements of commencing university, and if you’re reading this as a prospective student, it could be one of your primary concerns. On my first day settling into my accommodation, a few days prior to the term’s commencement, I spent the whole day confined to my room, too scared to step out and introduce myself to my peers. However, sitting here today, I can proudly say that I’ve made some of the best friends I’ve ever known at this university and within this program. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all started with some casual conversations with individuals in comparable situations. So, what have I learned? I found that it’s always advantageous to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you’re not feeling prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be a multitude of ice-breaking opportunities and events to assist you in connecting with others. I also discovered that if you can embody one thing, be genuine. With such a diverse array of individuals throughout the program and university, you’re sure to find like-minded people.
Another challenge was handling the workload and the complexity of the content. There was indeed a transition from A-levels, and in some respects, an even greater leap from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such an environment can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few factors aided me through that sensation, one being the reminder that everyone shares the same experiences. If something is unclear, I can almost assure you that others are confused too. Therefore, seek assistance. This may be the most crucial lesson to grasp in the first year. Reach out for help from your peers and the staff!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The personnel in Materials are exceptional. They are dedicated to your success and recognize that students face challenges. They empathize with us and maintain open lines of communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had started earlier. I previously mentioned taking leaps – I took one at the beginning of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This role allowed me to connect with the staff members, which is incredibly valuable. There are numerous ways to engage with the staff, and it’s certainly one of the best things you can do for yourself! My primary takeaway from this aspect of university is to capitalize on the assistance available. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has shown me that anxious feelings, both prior to and during university, are often baseless and can be eased with the various support resources available from staff and fellow students. I’ve realized that I’m never alone and learned how to have fun despite pressures like exams and deadlines.