Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the brink of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was a significant departure for my previously timid and reserved nature. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained this year, and what is my current status?
One of the initial and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This aspect is frequently one of the most unsettling elements of commencing university, and it may be a primary worry for prospective students. On my inaugural day moving into my accommodation, a few days before classes commenced, I spent the whole day retreating in my room, too daunted to venture out and interact with others. Now, I can proudly declare that I have forged some of the best friendships I’ve ever had here at university and in my program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with fellow students in similar situations. So, what did I discover? It’s always advisable to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you feel unprepared or uneasy, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaker events and activities to aid in connecting with others. I also learned that authenticity is essential. With such a diverse group of individuals across the program and university, you’re likely to discover people who resonate with you.
Another challenge was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the material. There was a clear leap from A-levels, and in some respects, an even greater leap from the first term to the second. Being in such a setting can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few factors helped me navigate this, one of which was the reassurance that everyone shares similar experiences. If you struggle to grasp something, I can almost guarantee that others are as well. So, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This could very well be the most crucial lesson learned during the first year. Reach out to peers and faculty!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and understand the challenges students encounter. They show empathy towards students and maintain ongoing communication regarding our concerns throughout the year. I didn’t fully utilize the pastoral support until late in the year, but I wish I had accessed it earlier. I mentioned taking risks previously – I indeed took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position enabled me to become acquainted with the staff, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to familiarize yourself with the faculty, and it’s one of the most advantageous actions you can take for your own benefit! My main takeaway from this facet of university is to fully leverage the assistance available. You can never have too much support!
In summary, this year has taught me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are often baseless and can be mitigated through the support systems provided by faculty and fellow students. It’s taught me that I’m never truly alone and how to find joy even amidst stressors like exams and deadlines.