Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Almost a year ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was about to begin my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unfamiliar was something my previously timid and reserved nature was not accustomed to. Looking back on the last academic year, I recognize a path of personal development, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This often ranks among the most daunting parts of starting university, and for any future student, it may be one of your chief worries. On the day I moved into my accommodation, just a few days before classes started, I spent the whole day in my room, too anxious to go out and meet new people. However, sitting here now, I can assertively say I’ve formed some of the closest friendships I’ve ever had at this university and in this program. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with others facing similar experiences. So, what did I discover? I learned that taking initiative at the beginning of the year is always beneficial. If you feel unprepared or uncomfortable, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaking chances and gatherings to assist you in connecting with others. I also found that if you can embody one thing, be genuine. With such a wide array of people across the program and university, you’re sure to meet individuals who resonate with you.
Another significant challenge was managing the workload and the complexity of the material. There was undoubtedly a higher level of difficulty compared to A-levels, and in some respects, an even larger transition from the first term to the second. Being placed in such a setting can shake your confidence; you might notice others studying and feel inadequate. A few strategies helped me navigate that feeling, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If you find something unclear, I can nearly guarantee that others are struggling too. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This could be the most crucial lesson from the first year. Reach out to your classmates and the faculty for support!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and understand the challenges that students encounter. They show compassion towards us and keep consistent communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until late in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned earlier about embracing opportunities – I took one at the year’s outset by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This role enabled me to connect with faculty members, which is immensely beneficial. There are many avenues to build relationships with staff, and it’s undoubtedly one of the most advantageous steps you can take for yourself! My key takeaway from this aspect of university life is to fully utilize the assistance available to you. You can never have too much help!
In conclusion, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both before and during university, are often unfounded and can be mitigated with the variety of support systems existing through staff and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never alone and how to find enjoyment amid stressors like exams and deadlines.