Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of commencing my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Diving into the unknown was not something my previously introverted and reserved personality was used to. Looking back on the past academic year, I recognize a path of personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained this year, and what is my current standing?
A key and intimidating hurdle was forming friendships. This is often one of the most anxiety-inducing elements of starting university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may weigh heavily on your mind. On my first day of moving into my residence, a few days prior to the term commencing, I spent the entire day in my room, far too daunted to venture out and greet others. Now, I can proudly say I’ve built some of the best friendships here at this university and within my program. I’ve found a second family at Imperial, and it all commenced with casual conversations with individuals in similar situations. So, what did I discover? I realized that taking an initial leap at the beginning of the year is vital. If you’re feeling unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker events designed to assist you in connecting with others. I also discovered that being authentic is crucial. With such a diverse community throughout the course and university, you are sure to find individuals who resonate with you.
Another challenge was handling the workload and the complexity of the material. There was indeed a noticeable jump from A-levels, and in some respects, an even greater transition from the first to the second term. Being in such an atmosphere can test your self-assurance; witnessing others studying may leave you feeling inferior. What aided me was the reminder that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you don’t grasp a concept, I can almost assure you that others are having the same struggle. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This is likely the most important skill to cultivate during your first year. Reach out to classmates and faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The staff in Materials are amazing. They genuinely want you to thrive and understand the difficulties students encounter. They empathize with us and consistently keep communication open regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had done so earlier. I talked about taking leaps before – I took one at the beginning of the year by stepping up as a year well-being representative. This role provided me the opportunity to familiarize myself with the staff, which is priceless. There are many avenues to connect with faculty, and it’s one of the best decisions you can make for yourself! My primary lesson from this part of university is to seize the support available. You can never have too much assistance!
In summary, this year has illuminated for me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are frequently unfounded and can be mitigated through the support available from staff and fellow students. It has shown me that I am never alone and how to relish my experience despite the pressures of exams and deadlines.