Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months prior, in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty concerning the future. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Embracing the unknown was not something my previously shy and reserved self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and plenty of enjoyment! But what insights has this year provided, and where do I find myself now?
One of the first and most intimidating challenges was forging friendships. This is undoubtedly one of the more daunting elements of starting university, and if you are a prospective student reading this, it might be a significant worry for you. On my inaugural day moving into my residence, a few days before the term commenced, I spent the whole day in my room, too intimidated to go out and meet others. However, today I can proudly say that I’ve formed some of the best friendships here at this university and within this course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all started with casual conversations with those in similar situations. So, what did I discover? I learned that taking a chance at the onset of the year is always worthwhile. If you feel unprepared or uneasy, don’t stress! There will be countless ice-breaker opportunities and events available to aid you in connecting with others. I also discovered that being true to yourself is essential. With so many diverse individuals across the course and university, you’re bound to find those who resonate with you.
Another challenge was managing the workload and the complexity of the content. There was certainly a noticeable increase from A-levels, and in some respects, an even bigger jump from the first term to the second. Being thrown into such an environment can be challenging for your confidence; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few strategies helped me cope with that sensation, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing the same challenges. If you don’t grasp something, I can almost assure you that others don’t either. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. This may be the most vital skill to cultivate in the first year. Reach out for support from your classmates and the faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to succeed and understand the hurdles students encounter. They empathize with students and keep in consistent contact with us throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. I mentioned taking risks earlier – I took 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 advantageous. There are multiple avenues to engage with staff, and it’s one of the best things you can do for yourself! My primary takeaway from this part of university is to utilize the assistance provided. You can never receive too much!
In summary, this year has revealed to me that anxious feelings, both prior to and during university, are frequently unwarranted and can be reduced with the numerous support options accessible from faculty and fellow students. It has demonstrated that I’m never alone and taught me how to have fun alongside pressures like exams and deadlines.