Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unknown was not something my previously reserved self was familiar with. Looking back now, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, challenges, and enjoyment! But what insights has this year provided me with, and what is my current situation?
One of the first and most intimidating obstacles was the task of making friends. This is often one of the most daunting aspects of entering university, and if you’re a future student, it may weigh heavily on your mind. On the day I moved into my accommodation, a few days before classes commenced, I spent the entire day in my room, too nervous to venture out and socialize. Today, I can proudly assert that I’ve formed some of the most amazing friendships here at university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with individuals in comparable situations. So, what have I discovered? It’s essential to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you’re not prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be ample ice-breaking events to aid in connecting with others. I also realized that staying true to yourself is crucial. With such a diverse array of people in the program and at the university, you’re sure to meet those with similar interests.
Another hurdle was the workload and the complexity of the material. There was undoubtedly a leap from A-levels, and in some respects, an even larger leap from the first term to the second. Being in such a setting can impact your self-esteem; you may feel inferior compared to your peers. A few strategies assisted me in overcoming this, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing the same challenges. If something isn’t clear to you, it’s likely that many others are in the same boat. So, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson of the first year. Reach out to peers and faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The staff in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to succeed and recognize the challenges students encounter. They are empathetic and maintain regular communication regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had started earlier. I mentioned taking risks – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position fostered connections with staff, which is invaluable. There are numerous avenues to get acquainted with staff, and it’s one of the most beneficial things you can do for yourself! My main takeaway is to utilize the support available. You can never have too much assistance!
In summary, this year has taught me that feelings of anxiety regarding university are often baseless and can be mitigated by the support systems provided by both staff and fellow students. It has shown me that I am never truly alone and how to find enjoyment even amidst the pressures of exams and deadlines.