Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding what lay ahead. I was about to begin my journey in Materials Science and Engineering as a newcomer. Embracing the unknown was not a scenario my previously quiet and reserved self was familiar with. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained, and where do I find myself today?
One of the earliest and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting elements of starting university, and if you’re an incoming student, it might be a significant worry for you. On my initial day of moving into my residence, a few days prior to the start of classes, I spent the whole day concealed in my room, too fearful to go out and meet others. Sitting here now, I can proudly say that I’ve made some of the best friends I’ve ever known, right here at this university and in this program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, beginning with casual conversations with individuals in similar situations. So, what did I take away from this? I discovered that making an effort right at the beginning of the year is always advantageous. If you’re not yet prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be plenty of opportunities for ice-breakers and events to facilitate connections with others. I also found that being authentic is essential. With such a broad mix of individuals throughout the program and university, you’re sure to meet those who align with you.
Another hurdle was managing the workload and the difficulty of the material. There was undoubtedly a transition from A-levels, and in some respects, an even larger shift from the first term to the second. Being thrown into such a setting can test your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few factors aided me in overcoming that sensation, one being the affirmation that everyone is navigating the same experience. If you’re struggling to grasp a concept, I can almost assure you that there are others who are as well. Thus, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This may be the most crucial skill to cultivate during your first year. Reach out to your classmates and the faculty!
This brings me to my subsequent point. The staff in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely want you to achieve success and recognize the challenges students encounter. They sympathize with us and maintain ongoing communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully utilize the support services until the year’s end, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned earlier about taking leaps – I took one at the year’s start by becoming a year well-being representative. This role enabled me to connect with the faculty members, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to engage with staff, and it’s undoubtedly one of the best actions you can take for yourself! My primary conclusion from this part of university is to make the most of the support provided. You can never have too much!
All in all, this year has demonstrated to me that feelings of anxiety, both prior to and during university, are frequently unfounded and can be eased by the many support resources available from faculty and fellow students. It has shown me that I’m never alone and how to have fun despite pressures like exams and deadlines.