Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months back, 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 introverted self was familiar with. Looking back now, I recognize a year of personal development, hurdles, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and what is my current status?
One of the first and most intimidating obstacles was forging friendships. Making friends is frequently one of the most anxiety-inducing parts of beginning university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may be a significant worry for you. On the day I moved into my accommodation, a few days ahead of the semester starting, I spent the entire day cloistered in my room, too daunted to step out and introduce myself to others. However, today, I can confidently state that I’ve established some of the finest friendships here at university and within my course. I’ve created a second family at Imperial, and it all commenced with simple conversations with individuals in similar situations. So, what did I discover? I found that taking a risk at the start of the year is always advantageous. If you’re not ready or feel uneasy, don’t stress! Numerous ice-breaker events will be available to assist you in connecting with others. I also realized that being your authentic self is essential. With such a variety of people throughout the course and university, you’re sure to find those who sync with you.
Another challenge was the workload and the complexity of the content. The transition from A-levels was certainly significant, and in some respects, the jump from the first to the second term was even steeper. Being thrown into such a setting can be tough on your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel insufficient. Several factors helped me overcome this sentiment, one being the reminder that everyone is navigating similar waters. If there’s something you don’t grasp, I can nearly promise others are in the same boat. So, seek assistance. This might be the most vital lesson to absorb in the first year. Look for help from classmates and faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The staff in Materials are phenomenal. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize that students encounter difficulties. They empathize with us and keep the lines of communication open throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had started earlier. I spoke of taking risks earlier – I did take one by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This position enabled me to connect with the staff, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous avenues to build relationships with faculty, and it’s one of the best decisions you can make for yourself! My key takeaway is to leverage the help that’s available. You can never have too much assistance!
In summary, this year has shown me that anxious feelings, both before and during university, are usually baseless and can be mitigated with the various support resources offered by staff and peers. It has illustrated to me that I’m never alone and how to find enjoyment despite stressors like exams and deadlines.