Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was about to embark on my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Immersing myself in the unknown was not something my previously timid and reserved self was familiar with. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and a lot of enjoyment! But what has this year revealed to me, and where do I stand now?
One of the first and most intimidating challenges was forming friendships. This is often one of the most frightening parts of starting university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be a significant concern for you. On my first day settling into accommodation, a few days before the term commenced, I spent the entire day in my room, too daunted to leave and introduce myself to others. Now, I can proudly say I’ve made some of the finest friends here at university and in my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with people in similar circumstances. So, what did I discover? I found that taking a leap at the beginning of the year is crucial. If you’re not prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There are numerous ice-breaking events designed to help you connect with others. I also learned that being genuine is essential. With a diverse array of individuals across the course and university, you’re sure to find like-minded peers.
Another obstacle was the workload and the complexity of the content. There was a noticeable increase from A-levels, and an even greater leap from the first term to the second. Being in such an environment can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel insufficient. What aided me was the reminder that everyone is in the same situation. If you’re perplexed by something, others probably are as well. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most vital lesson to grasp in the first year. Reach out for help from classmates and faculty!
This brings me to my next point. The staff in Materials are outstanding. They are eager for you to succeed and comprehend the difficulties students encounter. They demonstrate empathy and maintain open lines of communication with us throughout the year. I didn’t utilize the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. I spoke about taking leaps – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which is immensely beneficial. There are various ways to engage with staff, and it’s one of the best decisions you can make for yourself! My key takeaway is to fully utilize the support available. You can never have too much help!
In summary, this year has shown me that anxious feelings, both prior to and during university, are often unwarranted and can be alleviated with the assistance provided by staff and fellow students. It has taught me that I’m never alone and how to have fun despite pressures like exams and deadlines.