Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Just ten months ago, in October 2022, I was filled with anxiety and uncertainty about the future as I embarked on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my previously reserved self was used to. In hindsight, I see a year brimming with personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment! What insights have I gained this year, and what is my current situation?
One of the earliest and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most frightening elements of starting university, and if you are a future student, it could be a significant worry. On my initial day of moving into accommodations, just days before classes commenced, I spent the entire day in my room, too daunted to venture out and interact with others. However, I can now confidently say that I’ve formed some of the finest friendships here at university and in my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all originated from casual conversations with others in similar circumstances. So, what did I discover? It’s wise to take a chance at the start of the year. If you feel unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker events to facilitate connections with others. Moreover, if there’s one piece of advice I can give, it’s to be yourself. With such a diverse student body across the program and university, you’re sure to encounter individuals who resonate with you.
Another obstacle was managing the workload and the complexity of the material. There was certainly a transition from A-levels, and an even more significant leap from the first to the second term. Being in such an environment can test your self-esteem; you may observe others studying and feel inferior. What assisted me was the realization that everyone is encountering similar challenges. If a concept eludes you, chances are there are others who are struggling with it too. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This could be the most crucial lesson from the first year. Reach out to peers and faculty for support!
This brings me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are remarkable. They genuinely wish for your success and understand the hardships that students endure. They show empathy and maintain regular communication with us concerning our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the conclusion of the year, but I wish I had done so sooner. I referenced taking leaps before – I did take one by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position enabled me to familiarize myself with the staff, which is priceless. There are numerous ways to connect with faculty, and it is one of the best decisions you can make for your wellbeing! My primary lesson is to leverage the assistance available. There is no such thing as too much help!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of anxiety regarding university are often baseless and can be eased by the support provided by staff and fellow students. I’ve realized that I am never alone, and I’ve learned how to have fun, even amid pressures like exams and deadlines.