Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I felt anxious and uncertain about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown was not something my formerly reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year full of personal development, challenges, and enjoyment. But what have I gained, and where do I stand now?
One of the first and most intimidating obstacles was forming friendships. This is frequently a significant worry for new university students. On my initial day of moving into accommodation, I spent the whole day confined to my room, too daunted to say hello. Today, I can proudly assert that I’ve forged some of the greatest friendships here at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, simply by initiating small conversations with others facing similar circumstances. What did I learn? It’s wise to take a chance at the beginning of the year. If you aren’t prepared, don’t fret! There are numerous ice-breaker activities to assist you in connecting with others. Moreover, be true to yourself. With such a diverse array of people, you are sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another challenge was the academic workload and the complexity of the content. There was a clear transition from A-levels, and an even steeper shift between the first and second terms. Being in such an atmosphere can impact your self-esteem; you may feel inferior compared to your peers. What assisted me was recalling that everyone is experiencing similar challenges. If something is unclear to you, it’s likely unclear to others too. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This may be the most vital lesson of the first year. Seek support from fellow students and faculty!
This brings me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They truly want you to thrive and comprehend the challenges that students encounter. They engage with us throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t utilize the pastoral support until the year’s end, but I wish I had done so earlier. I took an initial step by becoming a year well-being representative, which enabled me to connect with the faculty. There are ample opportunities to engage with staff, and it’s one of the best decisions you can make for yourself! My primary lesson is to capitalize on the support available. You can never have an excess of it!
In summary, this year taught me that anxious feelings about university are oftentimes misplaced and can be alleviated through the support from both staff and fellow students. It taught me that I am never alone and how to find joy even amid pressures such as exams and deadlines.