Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, apprehension, and uncertainty about the future. I was about to embark on my Materials Science and Engineering degree as a first-year student. Stepping into the unknown was not something my previously introverted and quiet self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyment! But what insights did this year provide me with, and what is my current situation?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles I faced was making connections. This is often one of the most frightening parts of starting university, and if you’re considering becoming a student, it might be a significant worry. On my moving-in day, a few days before classes commenced, I spent the whole day in my room, too nervous to venture out and introduce myself. However, today I can boldly state that I’ve forged some of the best friendships here at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with others in similar situations. So, what was my takeaway? It’s important to take a risk at the beginning of the year. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be many ice-breaker chances and events to facilitate connections with others. I also discovered that being true to yourself is crucial. With such a diverse range of individuals across the course and university, you will surely find people who share your interests.
Another obstacle I encountered was the workload and the challenging nature of the material. There was certainly an increase in difficulty from A-levels, and in many ways, an even larger jump from the first to the second term. Being in this kind of environment can be daunting for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel less capable. What helped me was remembering that everyone is navigating the same challenges. If something is unclear to you, I can nearly guarantee that others are struggling as well. Therefore, ask for assistance. This might be the most vital lesson learned in the first year. Reach out to your classmates and instructors!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials is outstanding. They genuinely want you to thrive and are aware of the challenges students encounter. They show empathy and keep ongoing dialogue throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully leverage the support offered until the year was nearly over, but I wish I had done so earlier. I talked about taking leaps before – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative. This position helped me connect with the staff, which is invaluable. There are numerous ways to engage with faculty, and it’s one of the most beneficial actions you can take for yourself! My primary takeaway is to make the most of the assistance provided. You can never have an excess of support!
In summary, this year demonstrated to me that feelings of anxiety, both prior to and during university, are often baseless and can be eased by the available support from staff and fellow students. It taught me that I’m never alone and how to find enjoyment amidst pressures like exams and deadlines.