Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was about to embark on my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a newcomer. Venturing into the unfamiliar was not exactly something my previously timid and reserved self was familiar with. Looking back now, I can recognize a year filled with personal development, hurdles, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the earliest and most intimidating obstacles was forging friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting parts of beginning university, and if you’re an incoming student, it might be a significant worry for you. On the first day of settling into my accommodation, a few days prior to the semester commencing, I spent the entire day concealed in my room, far too daunted to step out and introduce myself to others. Now, I can proudly say that I’ve formed some of the best friendships here at university and in my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all initiated with casual conversations with others in similar circumstances. So, what have I learned? It’s essential to take a risk at the beginning of the year. If you’re hesitant or uneasy, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker chances and events to assist you in connecting with others. I also discovered that authenticity is vital. With such a diverse array of individuals throughout the program and university, you’re sure to find those who resonate with who you are.
Another hurdle was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the material. The transition from A-levels was noticeably steep, and an even greater leap from the first term to the second. Being in such a setting can be daunting for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. What got me through was the realization that everyone is experiencing the same challenges. If you are struggling to grasp a concept, I can almost assure you that others are too. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most essential lesson to grasp in the first year. Reach out to your peers and the faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The staff in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely want you to thrive and understand the challenges that students encounter. They are empathetic towards students and keep open lines of communication regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the final stages of the year, but I wish I had embraced it earlier. I mentioned previously about taking risks – I took one at the beginning of the year 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 staff, and it’s one of the best decisions you can make for yourself! My primary takeaway from this aspect of university is to utilize the support provided. You can never have too much!
All in all, this year has demonstrated to me that feelings of anxiety, both prior to and during university, are frequently unfounded and can be eased with the support available from faculty and fellow students. It has shown me that I am never alone and taught me how to have a good time despite pressures like exams and deadlines.