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 on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Stepping into the unknown was not something my previously shy and reserved self was used to. Looking back, I see a year filled with personal growth, challenges, and a lot of enjoyment! But what have I learned, and what is my current stance?
One of the earliest and most intimidating challenges I encountered was making friends. This is often one of the most daunting parts of starting university, and if you are an incoming student reading this, it might be a significant worry for you. On my first day of moving into my accommodation, just days before the term started, I spent the whole day sequestered in my room, too afraid to venture out and meet others. However, sitting here now, I can confidently state that I’ve formed some of the best friendships I’ve ever had, both at this university and within this program. I’ve discovered a second family here at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with those in similar situations. So, what did I take away? I discovered that taking a risk at the start of the year is always worthwhile. If you aren’t quite prepared or comfortable, don’t fret! There will be countless opportunities and events to foster connections with others. I also learned that if you can be anything, be genuine. With the myriad of diverse individuals at the university and in your course, you are sure to find those who connect with you.
Another challenge was the academic workload and the difficulty of the content. There was certainly an increase in expectations compared to A-levels, and in some respects, an even larger jump from the first term to the second. Being placed in such an environment can challenge your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few strategies helped me overcome that feeling, one being the reassurance that everyone shares similar experiences. If you find something confusing, I can nearly assure you that others do as well. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek help. This might be the most vital skill to cultivate in your first year. Reach out to your classmates and instructors!
This leads me to my next observation. The staff in the Materials department are exceptional. They are dedicated to your success and are aware of the challenges students encounter. They show empathy towards us and keep open lines of communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I had accessed it sooner. I mentioned earlier about taking risks – I took one at the beginning of the year by becoming a well-being representative for the year. This position enabled me to connect with staff members, which is incredibly beneficial. There are many ways to interact with staff, and this is one of the best actions you can take for yourself! My key takeaway from this aspect of university is to utilize the support available. You can never have too much help!
In summary, this year has taught me that feelings of anxiety, both prior to and during university, are frequently misplaced and can be diminished through the various support resources available from staff and fellow students. It has demonstrated to me that I am never alone and has shown me how to have fun while managing stressors like exams and deadlines.