Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year 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 fresh student. Plunging into the unknown was not something my previously introverted and reserved nature was prepared for. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, challenges, and plenty of enjoyment! But what insights have I gathered this year, and what is my current standing?
A significant early challenge was establishing friendships. This is undoubtedly one of the more frightening aspects of embarking on university life, and if you’re a future student reading this, it might be a primary concern of yours. On my first day settling into my accommodation, a few days prior to the term commencing, I spent the whole day wallowing in my room, too daunted to step outside and introduce myself to others. However, sitting here now, I can proudly state I’ve formed some of the greatest friendships of my life, both at this university and in my program. I have developed a second family here at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with individuals in similar circumstances. So, what did I discover? I learned that taking a chance at the start of the year is always beneficial. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be ample ice-breaking opportunities and events to facilitate connections with others. I also realized that if there’s one thing to embrace, it’s authenticity. With a diverse array of people across the program and university, you are destined to find those who resonate with you.
An additional hurdle was the intensity of the workload and the complexity of the material. There was certainly a leap from A-levels, and in some ways, an even greater leap from the first term to the second. Being thrust into such an environment can test your self-assurance; you may observe others studying and feel inferior. A few strategies assisted me through that sensation, one being the reminder that everyone is navigating the same challenges. If you’re struggling to grasp something, I can almost assure you there are others who are too. So, seek assistance. This may be the most crucial lesson to learn during your first year. Don’t hesitate to ask for help from your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are remarkable. They genuinely want you to succeed and recognize that students face difficulties. They relate to students and keep up consistent communication with us throughout the year regarding our challenges. I didn’t really utilize the support services until later in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I referred to taking risks before – and I did take one at the beginning of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This role enabled me to connect with the staff members, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to familiarize yourself with faculty, and it’s undoubtedly one of the best decisions you can make for yourself! My primary takeaway from this aspect of university is to capitalize on the assistance that is available to you. There’s no such thing as having too much!
In summary, this year has revealed to me that anxious thoughts, both prior to and during university, are nearly always baseless and can be eased with the abundant support options provided by staff and fellow students. It has taught me that I’m never on my own, and it has shown me how to find joy amidst stressors like exams and deadlines.