Composed by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously reserved self was used to. Reflecting on this past year, I recognize it was filled with personal development, obstacles, and enjoyment! So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current situation?
One of the initial and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting aspects of commencing university, and for prospective students, it might be a significant worry. On my first day settling into my accommodation, a few days before classes began, I spent the whole day in my room, too daunted to venture out and meet others. Today, I can proudly say I’ve formed some of the best friendships at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, all of which began with casual conversations with individuals in similar circumstances. So, what did I learn? It’s beneficial to take a leap of faith at the beginning of the year. If you’re not prepared, don’t fret! There will be ample ice-breaker activities to assist you in connecting with others. Furthermore, if you can embody one trait, be yourself. With such a diverse range of people throughout the course and university, you are sure to discover those who share your interests.
Another obstacle was the workload and the complexity of the material. There was a significant transition from A-levels, and even more so from the first term to the second. Being in such an environment can influence your self-esteem; you may feel inadequate when comparing yourself to peers. What assisted me was recalling that everyone shares the same experience. If you are struggling to grasp a concept, chances are others are too. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson of the first year. Reach out to classmates and faculty for help!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials is phenomenal. They genuinely want you to thrive and understand the challenges students confront. They sympathize and keep communication open with us throughout the year. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had utilized it earlier. I spoke of taking leaps earlier – I embarked on one by becoming a well-being representative for the year. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which is invaluable. There are numerous ways to engage with staff, and that’s one of the most beneficial things you can do for yourself! My primary takeaway is to capitalize on the support provided. You can never have too much assistance!
Ultimately, this year has shown me that feelings of anxiety regarding university are often unwarranted and can be mitigated with the backing available from both staff and fellow students. It enlightened me that I am never truly alone and taught me how to find enjoyment amidst pressures like exams and deadlines.