By Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was filled with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was embarking on my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Diving into the unknown wasn’t something my previously reserved self was accustomed to. Reflecting on the past year, I recognize it has been a journey of personal growth, challenges, and enjoyment! But what has this year revealed to me, and where do I stand now?
One of the initial and most anxiety-inducing challenges was forming friendships. This can certainly feel overwhelming when beginning university, and for those who are prospective students, it might be among your greatest concerns. On my first day moving into my accommodation, a few days before the semester commenced, I spent the entire day sequestered in my room, daunted by the thought of venturing out and greeting others. Now, I can proudly say I’ve made some of the finest friends I’ve ever encountered here at university and within this program. I have found a second family at Imperial, all initiated through casual conversations with others in similar circumstances. So, what did I take away from this? It’s beneficial to take a risk at the start of the academic year. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be ample ice-breaking chances and gatherings to facilitate your interaction with others. I also discovered that if you can embody one quality, it should be authenticity. There are countless diverse individuals throughout the course and university; you’re sure to meet people who resonate with you.
Another challenge was the academic workload and complexity of the content. There was certainly a transition from A-levels, and in certain aspects, an even greater leap from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such an atmosphere isn’t always conducive to your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few factors helped me navigate those feelings, one being the reminder that everyone shares the same experience. If you’re struggling to grasp something, I can almost guarantee others are as well. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This might be the most crucial lesson to learn in your first year. Seek help from both peers and staff!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to succeed and recognize that students face difficulties. They relate to students and consistently communicate throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t really utilize the pastoral support until the year’s conclusion, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned earlier about taking risks – I did take one at the year’s start by becoming a well-being representative. This role allowed me to connect with the staff, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to build rapport with faculty, and it’s one of the most advantageous things you can do for yourself! My main takeaway from this facet of university life is to make the most of the assistance available to you. You can never have too much support!
On a broader scale, this year has shown me that feelings of nervousness, both leading up to and during university, are nearly always unfounded and can be alleviated by the various support options provided by staff and fellow students. It has taught me that I’m never truly alone, and it has equipped me to find joy amidst the stresses of exams and deadlines.