By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I felt anxious, fearful, and unsure about what lay ahead. I was about to embark on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my previously introverted and quiet self was used to. Looking back now, I’ve experienced a year full of personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
One of the initial and most intimidating hurdles was establishing friendships. This is certainly one of the more daunting elements of commencing university, and if you’re reading this as an incoming student, it may be one of your primary worries. On the day I moved into my residence, a few days prior to the start of the term, I spent the whole day sequestered in my room because I was too daunted to step out and meet others. However, sitting here today, I can assert with confidence that I’ve forged some of the most incredible friendships I’ve ever had at this university and in this program. I’ve built a second family at Imperial, and it all commenced with casual conversations with individuals in the same situations as me. So, what did I discover? I learned that taking a bold step at the beginning of the year is always beneficial. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous opportunities for ice-breaking and events to aid in connecting with others. I also picked up the important lesson to be yourself. With such a diverse group of individuals throughout the course and university, you’re likely to find others who resonate with you.
Another challenge encountered was the intensity of the workload and the difficulty of the content. There was definitely a significant leap from A-levels, and in some respects, an even greater transition from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such a setting isn’t always kind to your self-esteem; you might observe classmates studying and feel inadequate. A few factors aided me through that sentiment, one being the reminder that everyone shares similar experiences. If you don’t grasp something, I can almost assure you there are others who also find it challenging. So, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This might be the single most vital lesson to absorb in the first year. Seek help from your peers and the faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are fantastic. They genuinely wish for your success and recognize that students encounter difficulties. They empathize with students and maintain open communication with us throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully engage with the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had utilized it earlier. I mentioned taking bold steps before – I took one at the year’s start by becoming a year well-being representative. This role enabled me to familiarize myself with the faculty, which is immensely beneficial. There are numerous ways to connect with the staff, and it’s undoubtedly one of the best actions you can take for yourself! My most significant takeaway from this segment of university life is to benefit from the assistance available to you. You can never have too much!
In conclusion, this year has illustrated to me that feelings of anxiety, both before and during university, are frequently unfounded and can be alleviated through the various support options offered by faculty and fellow students. It has shown me that I am never alone and has revealed how to find enjoyment amidst stressors like examinations and submission deadlines.