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 journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a newcomer. Venturing into the unfamiliar wasn’t something my previously timid and introverted self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, obstacles, and plenty of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the primary and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most frightening aspects of commencing university, and if you’re a future student, it might pose a significant worry for you. On my initial day of moving into student housing, just days prior to the start of the term, I spent the entire day in my room, too anxious to venture out and meet others. Today, though, I can say with certainty that I’ve built some of the greatest friendships here at university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with others in similar circumstances. So, what did I take away from this? I discovered that taking a chance at the start of the year is essential. If you’re not ready or at ease yet, don’t stress! There are numerous icebreaker activities designed to help you engage with others. I also learned that if you have the choice, always be yourself. With such a diverse group of individuals throughout the program and university, you are sure to find those who connect with you.
Another challenge I faced was managing the workload and the complexity of the material. There was certainly a level up from A-levels, and in certain respects, an even larger leap from the first term to the second. Being in such a challenging environment can impact your self-esteem; you may look around at others studying and feel insufficient. A few strategies helped me navigate those emotions, one of which was the realization that everyone is experiencing the same pressures. If you’re struggling to grasp something, I can nearly assure you that others are too. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most vital lesson to learn in your first year. Reach out to both peers and faculty for support!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize the difficulties students encounter. They are empathetic towards us and maintain open lines of communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until late in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I spoke about taking chances before – I seized one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position helped me connect with the staff, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and it is among the best choices you can make for yourself! My key message is to make the most of the assistance available. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both before and during university, are frequently baseless and can be alleviated through the resources provided by staff and fellow students. I’ve realized I’m never truly alone, and I’ve discovered how to find joy despite pressures like exams and deadlines.