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 commencing my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not something my formerly timid self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year enriched with personal development, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained this year, and what is my current situation?
One of the first and most intimidating obstacles was establishing friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting aspects of beginning university, and if you’re an incoming student, this concern may loom large. On my initial day of moving into my residence, a few days prior to the term’s commencement, I spent the entire day in my room, feeling too daunted to venture out and meet others. Today, I can proudly state that I’ve formed some of the finest friendships here at this university and within my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, all initiated through casual conversations with others in similar circumstances. So, what lesson did I learn? It’s wise to take a chance at the onset of the year. If you feel unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! There will be ample ice-breaker events available to foster engagement with others. I also realized that being genuine is essential. With such a wide variety of individuals across the program and the university, you’re sure to connect with those who share your mindset.
Another hurdle was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the material. There was certainly a noticeable increase from A-levels, and an even more significant jump from the first to the second term. Being in this type of environment can influence your self-esteem; you may observe others studying and feel unqualified. Several factors aided me in overcoming this, one being the reassurance that we’re all in this together. If you find something challenging, others likely do too. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This could very well be the most important lesson to absorb during your first year. Reach out to classmates and staff!
This brings me to my subsequent point. The staff in Materials are exceptional. They truly desire for you to thrive and comprehend the difficulties students encounter. They are understanding and maintain ongoing communication with us regarding our challenges. Although I didn’t take advantage of the pastoral support until the year’s conclusion, I wish I had accessed it earlier. I spoke of taking chances – I did take one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to build relationships with the staff, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to connect with staff, and it’s among the most advantageous actions you can take for yourself! My primary takeaway is to leverage the support available. One can never have too much!
Ultimately, this year has enlightened me that feelings of anxiety, both prior to and during university, are frequently baseless and can be eased with the support options provided by staff and fellow students. It has shown me that I am never alone and how to find joy amidst the pressures of exams and deadlines.