Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding what lay ahead. As a first-year student, I was about to set out on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my previously timid and reserved nature was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and plenty of enjoyment! But what insights has this year provided, and what is my current standing?
One of the first and most intimidating obstacles was forging friendships. This is certainly one of the more daunting elements of beginning university, and if you’re reading this as a future student, it might be one of your primary worries. On my initial day moving into my residence, just days ahead of the start of the term, I spent the entire day concealed in my room, too daunted to venture out and meet others. However, today I can assertively say that I’ve formed some of the most meaningful friendships here at this university and in my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all commenced with casual conversations with people in similar positions. What lesson did I take away? I realized that taking a chance at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There are numerous ice-breaker events and opportunities to help you bond with others. I also recognized that being true to oneself is essential. With such a diverse group of people across the program and university, you are sure to connect with like-minded individuals.
Another hurdle was coping with the workload and the difficulty of the material. There was certainly a notable increase in challenge compared to A-levels, and in many ways, an even larger leap from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such an environment can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might witness others studying and feel insufficient. A few strategies helped me navigate that feeling, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing the same struggles. If you don’t grasp something, I can nearly assure you that others don’t either. So, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson to take away from the first year. Seek help from your classmates and the educators!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize the challenges students encounter. They show compassion towards students and maintain regular communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully exploit the support resources until the year’s end, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned earlier about taking leaps – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This role enabled me to connect with the faculty, which is incredibly worthwhile. There are numerous paths to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the best decisions you can make for yourself! My primary takeaway from this facet of university life is to make the most of the assistance available. You can never have an excess of it!
In conclusion, this year has shown me that feelings of anxiety, both prior to and during university, are often baseless and can be mitigated through the various support systems accessible from faculty and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never alone and how to find joy despite challenges such as exams and deadlines.