Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I found myself feeling anxious, apprehensive, and uncertain about what awaited me. I was on the verge of embarking on my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a new freshman. Immersing myself in this challenging environment was not something my previously introverted and reserved nature was accustomed to. Reflecting on the past academic year, I recognize it has been filled with personal growth, challenges, and lots of enjoyable moments! But what insights has this year provided me, and what is my current position?
One of the initial and most anxiety-inducing obstacles I encountered was forging friendships. This undoubtedly ranks as one of the more intimidating aspects of commencing university, and if you’re reading this as an incoming student, it might be a significant concern for you. On my first day of moving into my accommodation, a few days prior to the semester commencing, I spent an entire day sequestered in my room because the thought of venturing out to greet others made me too anxious. Yet, as I sit here today, I can assert with confidence that I’ve formed some of the strongest friendships I’ve ever experienced here at university and in this programme. I’ve created a second family at Imperial, and making connections only required a bit of casual conversation with fellow students who were in similar situations. So, what was my takeaway? I discovered that taking a risk at the beginning of the year is crucial. If you’re feeling uncertain or uneasy, don’t fret! There will be numerous opportunities and events to break the ice and connect with others. I also realized that if there’s one thing to be, it’s yourself. With such a diverse group of individuals at the university and in the programme, there’s no doubt you’ll find others who resonate with you.
Another challenge I faced was managing the workload and the difficulty of the material. There was indeed a noticeable increase in rigor compared to A-levels, with an even more significant leap from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such an environment can be quite challenging for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate in comparison. I found a few strategies to combat those feelings, one of which was reminding myself that everyone else is navigating the same challenges. If you’re struggling to grasp a concept, I can almost assure you that several others are in the same boat. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This could very well be the most crucial lesson to learn during your first year. Reach out for help from your classmates and faculty!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in the Materials department are exceptional. They are genuinely invested in your success and recognize the difficulties that students face. They show compassion and maintain continuous communication with us throughout the year regarding our challenges. I didn’t fully utilize the support services until late in the academic year, but I wish I had taken advantage of them earlier. I mentioned earlier about taking risks — I took a leap at the start of the year by becoming a well-being representative. Holding this position allowed me to connect with the faculty, which is an incredibly beneficial opportunity. There are multiple ways to engage with staff, and it’s definitely one of the most advantageous things you can do for your own benefit! My main lesson from this aspect of university is to capitalize on the assistance available to you. There’s no such thing as too much support!
Overall, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both leading up to and during university, are typically unfounded and can be alleviated through various support options provided by staff and peers. It has taught me that I’m never truly alone, and it has shown me how to find enjoyment alongside stressors such as exams and deadlines.