Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainties regarding the future. I was about to embark on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my previously shy and reserved self was used to. Looking back on the past academic year, I recognize a path of personal growth, challenges, and immense enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the early and most intimidating challenges was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting aspects of commencing university, and if you’re a prospective student, it may weigh heavily on your mind. On my initial day settling into my accommodation, a few days before classes started, I remained in my room the entire day, too daunted to step out and introduce myself to anyone. Now, I can proudly assert that I’ve built some of the strongest friendships here at this university and in my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, all initiated through light conversations with others in similar situations. So, what have I learned? It’s advantageous to take a chance at the start of the year. If you’re feeling unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker events and activities to assist you in connecting with others. I also learned the importance of being authentic. With such a diverse array of individuals in the course and university, you are sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another hurdle was the volume of work and the complexity of the content. There was certainly an increase in difficulty from A-levels, and in some respects, an even larger leap from the first term to the second. Being immersed in such an environment can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel less capable. What benefited me was reminding myself that everyone is experiencing similar struggles. If you find a concept confusing, I can almost assure you that others are too. Thus, seek assistance. This could be the most vital lesson to take away from your first year. Don’t hesitate to ask for help from fellow students and staff!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They are committed to your success and understand the challenges students encounter. They show empathy and maintain ongoing communication with us regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking risks earlier – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which is invaluable. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the most beneficial choices you can make for yourself! My key takeaway is to utilize the available help. You can never have too much support!
In summary, this year has demonstrated to me that feelings of apprehension, both before and during university, are frequently baseless and can be alleviated by the various support options provided by staff and fellow students. It has shown me that I am never alone and has taught me how to have fun while managing stressors such as exams and deadlines.