Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, 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. Stepping into the unknown was not something my previously shy and introverted self was familiar with. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained this year, and what is my current standing?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting aspects of entering university, and if you’re an incoming student, it might be a significant source of worry for you. On my initial day of moving into my residence, a few days prior to the commencement of classes, I spent the entire day secluded in my room, too daunted to emerge and meet others. However, today, I can proudly affirm that I’ve made some of the most wonderful friends here at this university and in this program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with people in similar situations. So, what did I take away from this? I learned that taking a chance at the start of the year is always beneficial. If you’re not feeling ready or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaking chances and events to facilitate connections with others. I also realized that being authentic is vital. With such a diverse group of individuals in the course and university, you’re sure to find those who connect with you.
Another challenge was the intensity of the workload and the difficulty of the content. There was a clear increase from A-levels, and in some respects, an even greater jump from the first term to the second. Being placed in such a setting can be difficult for your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few strategies helped me through this sensation, one being the reminder that everyone shares the same struggles. If you find something confusing, I can nearly guarantee others are experiencing the same issue. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek help. This could be the most vital lesson of the first year. Reach out for assistance from your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The staff in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize that students encounter difficulties. They show empathy and ensure consistent communication throughout the year regarding our challenges. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the conclusion of the year, but I regret not doing so sooner. I mentioned taking leaps earlier – I made one at the beginning of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This role enabled me to connect with the staff, which is incredibly valuable. There are numerous ways to engage with the faculty, and it’s one of the most beneficial things you can do for yourself! My key takeaway from this aspect of university is to fully utilize the support available. You can never have too much assistance!
In summary, this year has taught me that anxious feelings, both prior to and during university, are often unfounded and can be relieved through the various support resources provided by staff and fellow students. It has shown me that I’m never alone and how to find enjoyment even amidst stressors like exams and deadlines.