Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, back in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty regarding the future. I was on the cusp of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Venturing into the unknown wasn’t something my previously shy and reserved nature was used to. Looking back on the past academic year, I perceive a path of personal growth, obstacles, and plenty of enjoyment! But what have I gained from this experience, and what is my current situation?
One of the first and most intimidating hurdles was establishing friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting aspects of commencing university, and for prospective students, it may pose a significant worry. On my initial day moving into my accommodation, just a few days prior to the term’s commencement, I spent the whole day in my room, too frightened to venture out and meet others. Now, I can assert with confidence that I’ve formed some of the most meaningful friendships here at university and within my course. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, beginning with casual conversations with individuals in comparable circumstances. So, what did I take away from this? It’s advantageous to make a bold move at the beginning of the year. If you’re feeling unprepared or uneasy, don’t stress! Numerous ice-breaker activities are available to assist you in connecting with others. I also discovered the importance of being true to yourself. With such a wide array of diverse individuals at the course and university, you’re sure to encounter those who share your traits.
Another challenge involved the workload and complexity of the content. There was a significant leap from A-levels, and even more so from the first to the second term. Being in such a setting can challenge your self-esteem; seeing others studying might make you feel less capable. A few strategies helped me navigate this, one being the understanding that everyone is experiencing the same situation. If you’re having trouble with something, others probably are as well. So, don’t hesitate to request assistance. This could be the most vital takeaway from my first year. Seek help from both your peers and the faculty!
This leads me to my next point. The faculty in Materials are exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize the challenges that students encounter. They show empathy and keep communication open about our struggles. I didn’t fully leverage the pastoral support until the year was almost over, but I wish I had taken advantage of it earlier. I talked about taking leaps before – I took one by becoming a well-being representative for the year. This position allowed me to connect with the staff, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous ways to establish relationships with faculty, and it’s one of the best things you can do for yourself! My key takeaway is to make the most of the assistance available. You can never have too much support!
In summary, this year taught me that feelings of nervousness, both prior to and during university, are often baseless and can be mitigated with the support accessible from faculty and peers. It taught me that I’m never truly alone and how to find joy even amidst stressors such as exams and deadlines.