Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Nearly a year ago, in October 2022, I was filled with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a freshman. Diving into the unfamiliar wasn’t something my previously shy and reserved personality was familiar with. Reflecting on this past year, I recognize it as a period of personal development, challenges, and a lot of enjoyment! So, what insights have I gained this year, and what is my current state?
One of the initial and most overwhelming challenges was forming friendships. This can undoubtedly be one of the more daunting elements of commencing university, and if you’re reading this as an incoming student, it may be one of your major concerns. On my first day moving into my residence, a few days prior to the semester starting, I spent the whole day secluded in my room as I was too daunted to go out and introduce myself to others. However, as I sit here today, I can assert that I’ve made some of the greatest friends I’ve ever had, right here at this university and within this program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and all it required was engaging in small talk with others in the same situation. So, what lesson did I acquire? I realized that taking the initiative at the beginning of the year is always beneficial. If you’re not feeling prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous opportunities for ice-breaking and events to facilitate connections with others. I also discovered that if you can be anything, it should be your true self. With so many diverse individuals across the program and university, you’re sure to find those who resonate with you.
Another challenge encountered was the intensity of the workload and the difficulty of the material. There was certainly a shift from A-levels, and in some aspects, an even larger shift from the first term to the second. Being immersed in such an environment can be tough on your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel inadequate. A few strategies helped me cope with that mindset, one being the acknowledgment that everyone is navigating the same challenges. If something isn’t clear to you, I can almost assure you that there are others who also find it confusing. So, seek assistance. This may be the most crucial lesson to grasp in your first year. Don’t hesitate to ask for help from your classmates and the staff!
This leads me to my subsequent point. The faculty in Materials are outstanding. They genuinely want you to succeed and recognize the difficulties students face. They relate to our struggles and keep an open line of communication with us throughout the year regarding our concerns. I didn’t fully take advantage of the pastoral support until later in the year, but I wish I had engaged with it earlier. I initially discussed making bold moves – I took one by becoming a year well-being representative at the start of the year. This role allowed me to connect with the staff members, which holds tremendous value. There are numerous avenues to engage with faculty, and it’s undoubtedly one of the best choices you can make for yourself! My main insight from this facet of university life is to make the most of the assistance offered to you. There’s never such a thing as too much help!
Overall, this year has revealed to me that feelings of anxiety, both leading up to and during university, are often unfounded and can be eased by the plethora of support resources available from faculty and fellow students. It has shown me that I am never alone, and it has taught me how to find enjoyment amid pressures such as exams and deadlines.