Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, 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 freshman. Embracing something novel was not typical for my formerly reserved self. In hindsight, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and enjoyment! So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current standing?
One of the earliest and most intimidating hurdles was establishing friendships. This can often be daunting when entering university, and if you’re a prospective student, it may weigh heavily on your mind. On my first day in my accommodation, just days before classes commenced, I remained in my room the entire day, too anxious to venture out and socialize. Now, I can proudly boast that I’ve forged some of the best friendships here at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, thanks to casual conversations with others in similar situations. What have I learned? It’s advantageous to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you feel unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! There are numerous ice-breaker activities designed to facilitate connections with others. Also, above all, be true to yourself. With such a diverse crowd at the university, you’re sure to encounter those who resonate with you.
Another obstacle I faced was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the material. There was a clear escalation from A-levels, and an even sharper rise from the first to the second term. Being in such a setting can impact your self-esteem; you may feel less capable than your peers. Keep in mind, everyone shares this experience. If there’s something you find confusing, it’s likely that others are struggling too. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This could be the most vital lesson in your first year. Reach out to fellow students and faculty for support!
This brings me to my next point. The staff in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to achieve and are aware of student challenges. They are understanding and maintain open lines of communication throughout the year regarding any obstacles. While I didn’t utilize the pastoral support until the end of the year, I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. I mentioned taking risks—I did so by stepping up as a well-being representative for my year. This position allowed me to connect with faculty, which is priceless. There are numerous avenues to engage with staff, and it’s one of the most beneficial actions you can take for your well-being! My key takeaway is to make the most of the assistance available. You can never have too much support!
This year has shown me that feelings of anxiety, both before entering and during university, are often unfounded and can be mitigated through the support provided by staff and fellow students. I’ve come to realize that I’m never truly alone and discovered how to have fun despite the pressures of exams and deadlines.