Authored by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
It was ten months ago, in October 2022, that I found myself consumed by anxiety, fear, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. I was on the verge of starting my degree in Materials Science and Engineering as a first-year student. Stepping into the unfamiliar was not something my formerly shy and introverted self was used to. Looking back now, I recognize a year filled with personal development, obstacles, and a great deal of enjoyment! But what insights have I gained from this year, and what is my current state?
One of the initial and most intimidating hurdles was forming friendships. This is frequently one of the most daunting elements of entering university, and if you’re an incoming student, it may rank as one of your primary concerns. On my first day settling into my accommodation, just a few days before classes commenced, I spent the whole day confined to my room, too fearful to venture out and meet others. However, today I can confidently assert that I’ve formed some of the greatest friendships I have ever known, here at this university and within this program. I’ve discovered a second family at Imperial, and it all began with casual conversations with individuals in comparable situations. So, what valuable lesson did I take away? I learned that making an effort at the beginning of the year is always beneficial. If you don’t feel prepared or at ease, don’t fret! There will be numerous ice-breaking chances and activities to facilitate connections with others. I also realized that being your authentic self is essential. With such a diverse mix of individuals across the course and university, you’re sure to encounter those who resonate with you.
A further challenge was managing the workload and the complexity of the content. There was undoubtedly a significant increase from A-levels, and in some respects, an even larger leap from the first semester to the second. Being thrust into such an atmosphere can be challenging for your self-esteem; you might observe others studying and feel like you don’t measure up. A few things helped me navigate that emotion, one being the reminder that everyone is experiencing similar struggles. If something is unclear to you, I can almost assure you there are others who are also confused. Therefore, don’t hesitate to seek help. This may be the most crucial lesson to grasp during your first year. Reach out to your peers and the faculty!
This leads me to my next observation. The faculty in Materials is exceptional. They genuinely want you to thrive and recognize that students face challenges. They relate to students and maintain ongoing communication with us throughout the year concerning our difficulties. I didn’t really utilize the pastoral support until the end of the year, but I wish I had taken advantage of it sooner. I mentioned earlier about taking leaps – I took one at the beginning of the year by becoming a year well-being representative. This role enabled me to build relationships with the faculty, which is incredibly beneficial. There are numerous opportunities to connect with staff, and it’s unquestionably one of the best decisions you can make for yourself! My primary message regarding this area of university life is to leverage the assistance available. You can never receive too much!
In summary, this year has taught me that feelings of anxiety, both prior to and throughout university, are often unfounded and can be mitigated by the support systems provided by the staff and fellow students. It has shown me that I’m never truly alone, and it has illustrated how to have fun amidst pressures like exams and deadlines.