Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Around ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Diving into the unknown was not something my formerly shy and introverted self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and a lot of enjoyment! But what have I gained from this year, and where do I stand now?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forging friendships. This is frequently one of the most alarming aspects of commencing university, and if you’re an incoming student, it could be one of your largest concerns. On my initial day of moving into my accommodation, a few days prior to the start of term, I spent the whole day in my room, too scared to venture out and introduce myself. Now, I can proudly state that I’ve formed some of the best friendships during my time at university and in my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, beginning with casual conversations with others in similar scenarios. What have I learned? It’s wise to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you feel unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker activities designed to assist you in meeting others. Additionally, just be yourself. With so many diverse individuals throughout the program and university, you’re sure to encounter like-minded people.
Another significant challenge was managing the workload and the complexity of the material. There was a noticeable increase from A-levels, and an even more substantial leap from the first term to the second. Being in such an atmosphere can be demanding on your self-esteem; you might observe peers studying and feel inferior. A few strategies aided me through this, one being the reassurance that everyone is experiencing similar difficulties. If something eludes your understanding, it’s almost certain that others are having trouble as well. So, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This may be the most vital lesson to grasp in the first year. Reach out for help from classmates and faculty!
This brings me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely desire for you to thrive and are aware of the challenges students encounter. They show understanding and maintain open lines of communication with us regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully tap into the pastoral support until the conclusion of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I spoke of taking leaps earlier – I stepped up by becoming a year well-being representative. This position allowed me to connect with the faculty, which is immensely beneficial. There are various avenues to engage with staff, and it’s one of the best actions you can take for your own benefit! My main takeaway is to make the most of the resources available. You can never receive too much assistance!
Ultimately, this year has demonstrated that feelings of anxiety, both prior to and during university, are frequently misplaced and can be eased through the various support systems provided by staff and fellow students. It has made me realize that I’m never alone and taught me how to find joy even amidst pressures such as exams and deadlines.