Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I was filled with anxiety and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Immersing myself into the unknown was not something my previously reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year brimming with personal development, hurdles, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained this year, and what is my current state?
One of the first and most intimidating challenges was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most frightening elements of beginning university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be a significant worry for you. On my initial day moving into my accommodation, a few days bevor classes started, I spent the whole day in my room, too daunted to venture out and introduce myself. Now, I can confidently declare that I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever experienced here at university and in my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all commenced with some casual conversations with others in similar circumstances. So, what did I discover? I realized that taking a chance at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you’re not entirely prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker opportunities and events to assist you in connecting with others. I also found out that being true to yourself is essential. With so many diverse individuals across the course and university, you’re sure to encounter like-minded people.
Another hurdle was the academic workload and the complexity of the material. There was certainly a noticeable elevation from A-levels, and in some respects, an even larger leap from the first term to the second. Being in such a setting can challenge your confidence; you may observe others studying and feel insufficient. What supported me during this was recalling that everyone is facing the same predicament. If something confuses you, I can nearly guarantee others are perplexed as well. So, seek assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson to grasp in your first year. Turn to your peers and staff for support!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and comprehend the difficulties students navigate. They relate to students and maintain ongoing communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully tap into the pastoral support until late in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking risks previously – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the most worthwhile actions you can take for yourself! My primary lesson from this aspect of university is to seize the assistance available. You can never have excess support!
In conclusion, this year has imparted to me that anxious feelings, both prior to and during university, are often unfounded and can be mitigated by the various support resources available from staff and fellow students. It has shown me that I’m never isolated and how to appreciate the experience amidst stressors such as exams and deadlines.