Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I felt anxious, afraid, and uncertain about what was ahead. I was on the brink of beginning my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a fresh first-year student. Daring to dive into the unknown was not something my previously shy and withdrawn self was accustomed to. Reflecting on the past academic year, I can see a journey filled with personal growth, obstacles, and a lot of enjoyment! But what have I gained from this year, and what is my current status?
One of the initial and most daunting challenges I encountered was making friends. This is certainly one of the more intimidating aspects of starting university, and if you’re reading this as an incoming student, it may be one of your biggest concerns. On my first day settling into my accommodation, a few days prior to the term commencing, I spent the whole day retreating in my room because the thought of venturing out to greet people was overwhelming. Yet, sitting here today, I can proudly state that I’ve formed some of the closest friendships I have ever had, right here at this university and in this program. I have discovered a second family here at Imperial, and all it took was initiating casual conversations with others in similar situations. So, what did I take away from this? I learned that it’s always beneficial to take a risk early in the year. If you don’t feel entirely prepared or at ease, that’s okay! There will be plenty of opportunities and events designed to help you connect with others. I also realized that if you can embody one quality, it should be authenticity. With a diverse array of individuals throughout the course and university, you are sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another obstacle I had to overcome was the intensity of the workload and the difficulty of the material. There was definitely a significant leap from A-levels, and in some respects, an even larger transition from the first term to the second. Being immersed in such an environment can certainly challenge your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and begin to doubt your own abilities. There were several strategies that helped me navigate those feelings, one being the reminder that everyone shares similar experiences. If something confuses you, I can almost assure you that there are several others who are just as lost. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek help. This could potentially be the most crucial lesson to grasp in your freshman year. Reach out for assistance from your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are incredible. They genuinely want you to succeed and understand the challenges students face. They show empathy towards us and maintain constant communication throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t take full advantage of the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had sought it out earlier. I mentioned earlier about taking risks – I took one at the beginning of the year by becoming a well-being representative for my year. This role allowed me to connect with faculty members, which is an invaluable opportunity. There are countless avenues to get to know staff, and it is unquestionably one of the best decisions you can make for yourself! My primary takeaway from this particular aspect of university life is to take full advantage of the support being offered. There’s no such thing as too much help!
In general, this year has shown me that feelings of anxiety, both before and during university, are nearly always unfounded and can be alleviated with the vast array of support options provided by faculty and fellow students. It has taught me that I am never alone and shown me how to find joy even amidst the pressures of exams and deadlines.