Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Embracing the unknown was not something my previously timid 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 daunting challenges was forging friendships. This is often one of the most frightening parts of beginning university, and if you’re a future student, it might be a significant worry for you. On my first day moving into my dorm, a few days before classes commenced, I spent the whole day in my room, too intimidated to venture out and meet others. Now, I can proudly say that I’ve formed some of the best friendships here at university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all commenced with casual conversations with others who were in similar conditions. So, what did I discover? I learned that taking a risk at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you’re not prepared or comfortable, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker activities to aid you in connecting with others. I also discovered that being yourself is essential. With such a variety of people throughout the course and university, you’re bound to meet those who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the material. There was certainly a significant increase from A-levels, and an even larger jump from the first to the second term. Being in such an atmosphere can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few strategies assisted me through this, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you find something difficult to grasp, I can almost assure you others are as well. So, don’t hesitate to seek support. This may be the most vital lesson from the first year. Reach out for assistance from classmates and faculty!
This brings me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials is exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the difficulties students encounter. They empathize with us and keep up ongoing communication regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully tap into the pastoral support until the year was nearly over, but I wish I had done so earlier. I talked about taking risks previously – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the faculty, which is invaluable. There are numerous ways to engage with staff, and it’s one of the best actions you can take for yourself! My key takeaway is to fully utilize the assistance available. There’s no such thing as too much support!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of anxiety, both before and during university, are often baseless and can be eased with the assistance from staff and fellow students. It has demonstrated to me that I’m never truly alone and taught me how to enjoy my time despite pressures like exams and deadlines.