Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Taking such a leap was not a familiar experience for my previously shy and introverted self. Looking back now, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, challenges, and a significant amount of fun! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
One of the first and most intimidating obstacles was making new friends. This undoubtedly ranks among the more daunting elements of commencing university, and if you’re reading this as a prospective student, it could be one of your principal worries. On my initial day of moving into my accommodation, a few days ahead of the term, I spent the whole day secluded in my room, too daunted to venture out and introduce myself to others. Now, however, I can proudly state that I’ve forged some of the finest friendships I’ve ever had, right here at this university and in this program. I’ve cultivated a second family at Imperial, beginning with casual conversations with individuals in similar circumstances. So, what did I discover? I realized that taking a risk at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you’re feeling unprepared or uneasy, fret not! Numerous ice-breaker opportunities and events will arise to assist you in connecting with others. I also came to understand that if you can embody anything, embrace being yourself. With so many diverse individuals throughout the course and the university, you’re sure to encounter like-minded people.
Another hurdle was the academic workload and the complexity of the content. There was certainly an increase from A-levels, and in some ways, an even more significant jump from the first term to the second. Being thrown into such an environment can be daunting for your self-esteem; you may observe others studying and feel inadequate. Several factors helped me navigate that sensation, one of which was the reminder that everyone shares this journey. If you don’t grasp something, I can almost assure you others are in the same position. Therefore, seek assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson to grasp in your first year. Look for help from your peers and the staff!
This leads me to my following point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize that students face challenges. They show compassion towards students and maintain ongoing dialogue with us throughout the year regarding our difficulties. I didn’t really utilize the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. I mentioned taking risks before – I did so at the beginning of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This role enabled me to establish connections with the staff, which is immensely beneficial. There are countless avenues to connect with staff, and it’s truly one of the best actions you can take for yourself! My primary takeaway from this facet of university life is to leverage the support available. You can never have too much!
In summary, this year has imparted the lesson that feelings of anxiety, both before and during university, are frequently unwarranted and can be mitigated by the various support avenues provided by staff and fellow students. It has shown me that I am never alone and highlighted how to enjoy my time even amidst pressures such as exams and deadlines.